Introduction
These Easy Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are the perfect weeknight solution when you need something quick, family-friendly, and irresistibly crunchy. Made with simple ingredients like panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and pantry spices, this baked version delivers that classic crispy texture—without the mess or heaviness of frying. If you’re searching for an easy chicken tender recipe that always comes out golden, juicy, and delicious, this one’s going to be a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- Healthier than fried while staying wonderfully crunchy
- Kid-approved and adult-loved
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Uses common, budget-friendly ingredients
- Works great for meal prep, lunches, or quick dinners
- Pairs with almost any side—veggies, rice, pasta, or dips
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cut into strips
- Pinch of salt & pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Optional Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh minced garlic
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 300 ml heavy/thickened cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Parsley + lemon wedges for serving
How to Make Easy Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch strips. Pat dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps the breading stick and keeps everything flavorful.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
- Bowl 1: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 2: Combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
The Parmesan adds extra crispness and a savory boost, but you can skip it for dairy-free.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg and let excess drip off.
Transfer to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres.
Tip: Want ultra-crispy tenders? Repeat the egg and breadcrumb process for a double coat.
Step 4: Arrange and Prepare for Baking
Line a baking sheet with parchment or use a wire rack on top of your sheet pan. A rack gives maximum air circulation for a crispier finish.
Space the tenders apart so they bake evenly.
Spray lightly with olive oil to help them crisp.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Remove from the oven once golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Optional Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add chicken stock, cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan.
Simmer until thickened and season to taste.
Serve poured over your tenders or on the side for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-free version: swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko.
- Dairy-free option: omit Parmesan and use dairy-free cream for the sauce.
- Extra crunchy finish: broil on high for 2 minutes after baking.
- Healthier swap: use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Make it kid-friendly: keep the seasoning mild and serve with ketchup or ranch.
Serving Ideas & Storage
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, fries, salads, steamed veggies, or your favorite dipping sauces. These tenders work beautifully for wraps and lunchboxes too.
Storage:
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: 375°F oven or air fryer for best crispiness
Easy Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy, golden chicken tenders seasoned with herbs and served with dipping sauces. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix flour, panko, and spices in a shallow bowl.
3. Dredge each chicken tender in the dry mixture, pressing to coat.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the tenders in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 3–4 minutes per side).
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crunch, double-dip the tenders in buttermilk and coating mix.
Can be baked at 425°F for 20–25 minutes if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 tenders
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
Final Thoughts
These Easy Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders prove that simple ingredients can yield incredible results. With their crunchy coating and juicy interior, they’re a go-to recipe for busy nights, picky eaters, or anytime you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make them once, and they’ll become a weekly staple!