f you’ve been searching for the ultimate crispy chicken tenders recipe that delivers restaurant style crunch at home without deep frying then this is it. These homemade baked chicken tenders come out golden, crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. The best part? They’re ready in under 30 minutes and made with simple pantry staples.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or need a kid approved snack for picky eaters, this recipe is a go to. These crispy chicken strips use panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch, and by baking instead of frying, you skip all the mess and oil without sacrificing texture.
Why I Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen:
- Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of baking.
- Healthier Option: No deep frying involved just a light spray of cooking oil and a hot oven.
- Versatile: Serve with your favorite dips like honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy mayo.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prep and freeze these for a quick meal later.
Step by Step Breakdown
1. Prep the Chicken
I start by trimming any visible fat or tendons from 1 pound of chicken tenderloins. If I don’t have tenderloins on hand, I simply cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch thick.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
Here’s how I layer the breading for maximum flavor and crisp:
- First Dish: Mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt.
- Second Dish: Beat 3 large eggs with ¼ cup of water and ½ teaspoon of seasoned salt.
- Third Dish: Combine 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt.
Using seasoned salt in each step really enhances the overall flavor without being too salty.
3. Bread the Chicken Strips
I dredge each chicken strip in the flour mix first, making sure to shake off any excess. Then I dip it into the egg wash, followed by a final coat in the panko mix. I gently press the breadcrumbs to stick well for extra crunch. Each breaded tender gets placed on a baking rack set over a baking sheet for even cooking.
4. Bake to Perfection
Before going into the oven, I give the tenders a light spray of olive oil cooking spray. Then I bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (215°C) for about 10 13 minutes. No flipping is needed if using a rack this setup allows hot air to circulate and crisp all sides.
Tips & Tricks for Best Results
- Panko is key: Regular breadcrumbs just won’t cut it here panko gives that light, airy crunch that’s unbeatable.
- Make it egg free: If you or someone in your family has an egg allergy, substitute the egg wash with a bit of mustard or mayo.
- For perfect leftovers: Reheat your leftover tenders in a 400°F (205°C) oven for 5 minutes they’ll crisp right up like new.
- Freeze for later: Freeze cooked, cooled chicken tenders on a tray first. Once frozen, store them in a zip top bag. Bake directly from frozen for 18to 22 minutes.
These homemade crispy chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for lunchboxes, game day, or even dinner paired with a fresh salad or fries.