🍗 Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders
⭐ Serves: 4
⏰ Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins
🛒 Ingredients:
For the chicken:
1½ lbs chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the breading station:
Flour mixture
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Egg wash
2 large eggs
1 tbsp water
Breadcrumb coating
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds flavor)
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (helps with browning)
½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
🔪 Instructions:
1. PREP AND PREHEAT:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a wire rack placed over a baking sheet for extra crispiness.
2. SET UP BREADING STATION:
Set up three shallow bowls: one for the flour mix, one for the egg wash, and one for the breadcrumb mix.
3. BREAD THE CHICKEN:
Pat chicken dry. Season with salt and pepper.
Dredge each strip in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Press crumbs on firmly for a crisp coating.
Place tenders on the prepared baking sheet or rack.
4. BAKE:
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
For extra crispiness, broil the last 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).
🥣 Dipping Sauce Ideas:
Honey mustard
BBQ sauce
Ranch dressing
Spicy mayo or Sriracha ketchup
✅ Tips for Success:
Panko breadcrumbs = crunchier coating than regular.
Use a wire rack if possible — helps air circulate for even crisping.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — leave space between tenders.