Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite, crispy baked chicken tenders! I can’t even begin to count the number of times these delightful little nuggets have saved me from meal-time panic. Whether it’s been a last-minute weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these tenders always steal the show. Plus, I love how they come out of the oven perfectly golden and crunchy, without the guilt of frying.
My fond memories with these chicken tenders all started back in my college days when cooking was more about survival than gourmet gastronomy. I had some friends over one night, and I decided to whip up a batch using whatever I had in my pantry. What I uncovered was a crispy, delicious dish that left everyone raving about my newfound culinary skills! It’s a recipe that’s been tweaked over the years, but every time I make them, it brings me back to those fun-filled nights. So, get ready to dive into making your own crispy baked chicken tenders!
What’s in Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients that make these tenders absolutely mouth-watering:
Chicken Breast: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They’re easy to work with and cook up beautifully. Just be sure to cut them into even strips for even cooking!
Breadcrumbs: I like to use panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. They’re light and airy, making them perfect for achieving that crispy texture without deep frying.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a great flavor depth and helps with the browning process. A little grated Parmesan goes a long way!
Spices: I typically use garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination gives the chicken tenders that classic savory taste we all love. Feel free to sprinkle in some your favorite herbs and spices!
Eggs: They act as the adhesive to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Plus, using eggs keeps everything rich and moist.
Is Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Good for You?
I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised! These crispy baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried ones.
Chicken Breast: It’s a great source of lean protein, perfect for building muscle and keeping you full without the extra fat.
Breadcrumbs: While they do provide some carbs, you can opt for whole grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you want a healthier twist.
Generally, this dish is best enjoyed in moderation due to the starches and potential sodium from the seasoning. However, with a side of veggies or a salad, it makes for a balanced meal!
Ingredients to Gather
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs, beaten
This recipe serves about 4 hungry people!
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that golden finish.
2. **Prepare the Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it all up so everything is evenly distributed.
4. **Dunk and Coat:** Take each chicken strip, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure a good coating.
5. **Bake:** Lay the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
6. **Serve:** Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. I personally love good old ketchup or honey mustard for that sweet tang!
Get Creative with Your Crispy Tenders!
There’s no limit to how you can jazz up these tenders! You can experiment with different spices for a little kick or even mix in some lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture for a zesty twist. Want them even crispier? A quick spritz of cooking oil right before they go in the oven can do wonders!
So, there you have it! I really hope you give these crispy baked chicken tenders a try. I promise they’ll become a staple in your cooking repertoire. When you do make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out and any tweaks you made! Happy cooking!
