![For my crispy baked chicken tenders, you need: - 1 lb chicken breast tenders - 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon olive oil These ingredients make the tenders crispy and tasty. You can add extra flavor with these optional seasonings: - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat - 1 teaspoon dried oregano for a herby taste - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for more depth Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste! Each serving of these chicken tenders has: - Calories: 320 - Protein: 30g - Carbohydrates: 20g - Fat: 15g These chicken tenders are a healthy choice. For the full recipe, check out the cooking guide! To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps to create a crispy outer layer. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step keeps the tenders from sticking and helps them cook evenly. In a big bowl, mix together one cup of whole wheat breadcrumbs, half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and half a teaspoon of salt. Set this aside. Now, crack two large eggs into another bowl. Whisk them with two tablespoons of Dijon mustard until smooth. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Take each chicken tender and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure it gets fully coated. Then, shake off the extra liquid and roll it in the breadcrumb mix. Press gently so the crumbs stick well. Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet with space between them. To get that extra crispy texture, drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the top. Bake the tenders for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip them halfway to ensure even browning. They are ready when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To achieve the best crispiness, use whole wheat breadcrumbs. They provide a great texture. Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it helps the tenders brown nicely. Also, make sure the chicken tenders are not crowded on the baking sheet. Proper air flow is key for crispiness. If you want an even crunchier finish, try broiling the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes. Just watch them closely to prevent burning! Imagine your kitchen filled with rich aromas while those chicken tenders bake. Picture the golden-brown crust forming on each tender. As they cook, you’ll see the crispiness develop. When they are finished, let them rest for a few minutes. This time lets the juices settle in, making each bite juicy and tender. For a complete recipe, click on [Full Recipe]. When making crispy baked chicken tenders, avoid these common mistakes: - Not drying the chicken: Wet chicken will not crisp up well. Pat it dry with paper towels. - Skipping the egg wash: The egg mixture helps the breadcrumbs stick. Don't skip this step. - Overcrowding the baking sheet: Space out the tenders to allow hot air to circulate. This helps them cook evenly. - Not flipping the tenders: Flip them halfway through baking for an even golden color. To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked: - Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). - Choose even-sized tenders: This helps them cook at the same rate. - Avoid opening the oven too often: Each time you open the door, the heat escapes. Keep it closed for even cooking. Dipping sauces can elevate your chicken tenders. Here are a few favorites: - Honey mustard: A sweet and tangy option. - Ranch dressing: Creamy and herby, it pairs well with chicken. - Buffalo sauce: For those who like heat, this spicy option is perfect. - Barbecue sauce: A classic choice that adds a smoky flavor. For a full recipe, check the [Full Recipe] section and enjoy the process of making these tasty chicken tenders! {{image_4}} If you like heat, try adding spices. You can mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breadcrumb mix. This adds a kick to the crispy coating. You can also use hot sauce in the egg mixture. Just a few drops can spice things up nicely. For a gluten-free version, swap whole wheat breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can use crushed cornflakes or almond flour. Both options give a tasty crunch. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, too. This way, everyone can enjoy these tenders. Experiment with different coatings to keep things exciting. Try using crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture. You can also mix herbs like Italian seasoning or dried basil into the coating. Each change can give a new flavor twist. For the full recipe, check out the details above. After enjoying your crispy baked chicken tenders, you may have some left. To store them, let the tenders cool down first. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and safe. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Reheating chicken tenders can be tricky. You want them crispy, not soggy. To do this, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for a quick and crunchy option. Freezing is a great way to keep your chicken tenders for longer. First, let them cool completely. Next, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, just reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious meal anytime! Crispy baked chicken tenders take about 15 to 20 minutes to bake. I recommend setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) for the best results. Thin tenders cook faster, while thicker ones may need a bit more time. Always check for a golden brown color and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This way, you know they are both safe and tasty. Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders! Just remember to thaw them first. It’s best to let them sit in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Once thawed, follow the same steps as if you were using fresh tenders. Adjust your baking time if needed, as they may require a few extra minutes to cook through. Crispy baked chicken tenders pair well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Fresh salad with mixed greens - Steamed broccoli or green beans - Sweet potato fries - Classic coleslaw - Macaroni and cheese - Dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch These sides make your meal balanced and more fun. For a complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. In this blog post, we explored the essential ingredients for chicken tenders and how to cook them perfectly. We covered tips to ensure a crispy finish and shared common mistakes to avoid. We also looked at tasty variations, storage info, and answered FAQs. Perfect chicken tenders are within your reach. With a few tricks, you can impress anyone. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!](https://tastyrecipes.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/fa7849e2-4dbe-40b9-85b5-9d4524545ebb-300x300.webp)
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Indulge in irresistibly crispy baked chicken tenders that are both healthy and tasty! Made with simple ingredients like whole wheat breadcrumbs and Parmesan, these tenders are easy to prepare and perfect for a family meal. Learn how to achieve that golden-brown crispiness in just 35 minutes. Click to explore the full recipe and impress everyone with this delightful dish that’s sure to be a hit at your table!