Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Print Version)

Baked golden chicken tenders with a crisp coating. Kid-friendly, easy for weeknights, and packed with flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1 cup cornflakes, finely crushed
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Dredging

08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 2 tablespoons milk

→ For the Pan

10 - Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the surface.
02 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
03 - Whisk together eggs and milk in a separate bowl until fully blended.
04 - Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to promote crispiness.
05 - Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
06 - Place breaded chicken pieces evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle the tops with olive oil for enhanced crunch.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning each strip halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Allow chicken to rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just over half an hour for fast family meals
  • Uses everyday ingredients already in your kitchen
  • Oven-baked so you skip the frying and keep things lighter
  • Customizable with your choice of spices and dips
02 -
  • Packed with lean protein thanks to real chicken tenders
  • Freezes beautifully so you can double up for future meals
  • Nut free and easy to make gluten free by swapping the breading
03 -
  • I learned to always press the breading on firmly for the crunchiest result
  • Warm all ingredients to room temperature before starting for even cooking
  • Try grating a little Parmesan cheese into the breading for extra savory depth
  • The best part is seeing how excited everyone gets when that tray of tenders comes out glowing and golden
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