These crispy baked chicken tenders are the perfect choice for easy recipes for dinner! Packed with flavor from garlic and Parmesan, they’re crunchy, oven-baked, and kid-approved. Whether you’re looking for air fryer cookies easy recipes, butter swim biscuits easy recipes, cheesey potatoes easy recipe, sweet easy recipes, quick and easy recipes, or easy food recipes, this meal fits the bill with simplicity and taste.
Table of Contents
- 1) Key Takeaways
- 2) Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- 3) Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- 4) How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- 5) Tips for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- 6) Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Ahead of Time
- 7) Storing Leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- 8) Try these Chicken recipes next!
- 9) Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- 10) Nutrition
1) Key Takeaways
- This baked chicken tenders recipe is healthier than fried options and full of flavor.
- The garlic-Parmesan combo gives it an Italian-inspired kick that’s a hit with all ages.
- Perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or even party platters.
- Crisps up beautifully in the oven without needing any deep-frying.
- Pairs well with a variety of dips and side dishes for easy recipes for dinner.
2) Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Looking for easy recipes for dinner that don’t skimp on flavor? These crispy baked chicken tenders from Lila at Lila Cooks are a must-try! Coated in seasoned Parmesan and baked until golden, they deliver the satisfying crunch of deep-fried tenders without the extra grease. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish for your family or slicing them for salads and wraps, this recipe is incredibly versatile. This dish also makes a fantastic addition to your weekly meal prep routine. The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika packs each bite with mouthwatering flavor, while panko breadcrumbs provide that signature crunch. You’ll love how easy it is to pull this dish together—ideal for quick and easy recipes, busy weeknights, or when you need a no-fuss crowd-pleaser. If you’re on the lookout for air fryer cookies easy recipes or butter swim biscuits easy recipes, this chicken dish will definitely earn a spot in your go-to recipe list.
3) Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Chicken Tenders (1.5 lbs): These are lean and cook quickly. They’re perfect for this baked recipe and make portioning easy.
Eggs (2 large): Acts as the binder for the breadcrumb coating, helping everything stick and crisp up perfectly.
Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, they offer an ultra-crunchy texture when baked.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds savory richness and pairs beautifully with the garlic seasoning for a bold, cheesy flavor.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Brings a warm, robust depth that pairs deliciously with the Parmesan and other seasonings.
Onion Powder (1 tsp): Offers a hint of sweetness and depth, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Paprika (1/2 tsp): Adds mild heat and a smoky undertone that complements the crispy coating.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Seasoning essentials to balance and enhance the flavors in every bite.
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil Spray: Helps the tenders crisp up in the oven without adding excess calories or fat.
4) How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking and help your tenders crisp up. This step ensures even browning and a quick cleanup after you’re done.
Step 2: Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and beat them until fully combined. In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This flavorful coating is the secret to the crispy texture and mouthwatering taste that makes this dish perfect for easy recipes for dinner.
Step 3: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat both sides evenly. Press gently to help the coating stick. You want a good, even crust on every piece.
Step 4: Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Give the tops a light spray with olive oil or cooking spray—this step helps them get that irresistible golden-brown crunch.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures that both sides crisp up beautifully without drying out. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure they’re cooked through.
Step 6: Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them moist and flavorful.
5) Tips for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Want to elevate your chicken game? First, make sure to use panko breadcrumbs. They’re the best choice for crispy results in the oven. You can toast them lightly in a dry skillet beforehand for an even crunchier texture. Also, pat your chicken dry with a paper towel before breading—it helps the coating adhere better. Don’t skip seasoning your breadcrumb mix! Garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese give these tenders irresistible flavor. This is one of those quick and easy recipes you’ll keep coming back to, especially for weeknight meals. Lastly, give your tenders space on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of baking, which reduces the crispiness. Using a wire rack on the sheet pan is also a great trick to get all-over crunch. For easy food recipes with a wow factor, this one is a definite keeper!
6) Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Ahead of Time
Planning ahead? This chicken recipe is great for meal prep. Bread the tenders and store them on a baking sheet in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them breaded and raw—just place them on a tray in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5–8 minutes to the cook time. They’ll still turn out deliciously crispy and golden! If you’re a fan of butter swim biscuits easy recipes or sweet easy recipes, pairing those with these tenders makes for an unforgettable dinner spread. Once baked, these tenders also reheat well in the oven or air fryer, keeping their crispy texture intact. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just trying to simplify your week, making these in advance is a total win!
7) Storing Leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Leftovers? No problem! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep the tenders crisp, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen without thawing. Whether you’re enjoying leftovers as a snack, salad topper, or in wraps, these chicken tenders stay versatile and delicious. Quick and easy recipes like this are perfect for busy families and meal preppers alike!
8) Try these Chicken recipes next!
9) Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders – Easy Recipes for Dinner
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
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