Crispy Chicken Tender Recipes for Baked Perfection

The Quest for Healthier Crispy Chicken Tenders

The allure of crispy chicken tenders is undeniable. That perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior has made them a global comfort food. However, traditional fried chicken tenders often come with a hefty amount of oil and calories, making them a treat reserved for special occasions for many health-conscious individuals. But what if you could achieve that same satisfying crispiness and delicious flavor through baking? This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders is your answer, offering a delightful way to enjoy this classic dish with a fraction of the fat and calories. We’ll guide you through a foolproof method that guarantees a juicy, flavorful, and wonderfully crunchy result that even the pickiest eaters will adore, proving that healthier can indeed be incredibly delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients for Perfectly Baked Chicken Tenders

The magic of these tenders lies in a simple yet effective breading system that mimics the crispiness of deep-frying but with the goodness of baking. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Look for plump, firm chicken breasts. You can also use chicken tenderloins, which are naturally smaller and more uniform in size.
• For the Breading Station:
  • All-Purpose Flour: About 1 cup, seasoned with salt and pepper for the initial dredge. This acts as the first layer, helping the egg adhere. Substitution: Whole wheat flour for added fiber, or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water. This creates a sticky binder for the breadcrumbs. Substitution: Unsweetened applesauce, milk, or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins) for an egg-free option.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: About 2 cups. Panko offers superior crunch due to its airy, flaky texture. Substitution: Regular breadcrumbs for a finer coating, crushed unsweetened cornflakes, or crushed pretzel pieces for a unique salty-sweet crunch.
• Seasonings for Breadcrumbs:
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a beautiful color and smoky depth.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for that savory aromatic kick.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the overall savory profile.
  • Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon, adding a hint of herbaceousness.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Crucial for bringing out all the flavors.
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground for a subtle bite.
• Olive Oil Spray or Melted Butter: For lightly coating the breaded tenders to achieve that golden, crispy finish. Around 2-3 tablespoons equivalent.

Timing: Get Your Crispy Tenders on the Table Fast!

This recipe is designed for efficiency. While the average baked chicken tender recipe might take upwards of an hour with marinating or resting steps, these are ready relatively quickly. The prep is straightforward, and the baking time is optimized for achieving perfect crispiness without overcooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Perfection

Follow these simple steps to achieve chicken tenders that are incredibly crispy on the outside and wonderfully juicy within.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts. Then, slice them lengthwise into uniform strips, about 1/2 inch thick. Aim for pieces that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. If using tenderloins, you can leave them whole or cut them in half if they are particularly large.

2. Set Up Breading Stations

Prepare three shallow dishes or plates for your breading stations:

• Dish 1: Flour Mixture. Combine the all-purpose flour with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk to combine.
• Dish 2: Egg Wash. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon of water until well combined and slightly frothy.
• Dish 3: Panko Mixture. Combine the Panko breadcrumbs with all the seasonings: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for flavor!

3. Coat the Chicken

Working with one chicken tender at a time, follow this dredging process:

1. Flour: Dredge the chicken tender in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s lightly coated on all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour.
2. Egg Wash: Dip the floured tender into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Make sure it is fully coated.
3. Panko: Immediately transfer the egg-coated tender to the Panko breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating. Ensure every surface is covered for maximum crunch.

Place the fully breaded tenders on a clean plate or baking sheet as you work. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping.

Lightly spray or brush the tops of the breaded tenders with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the Panko achieve a beautiful golden-brown and crispy texture. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then carefully flip each tender. Spray or brush the other side with oil/butter and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is deeply golden and crispy.

5. Rest and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken tenders from the oven. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and moisture. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

Nutritional Highlights

These baked chicken tenders offer a significantly healthier profile compared to their fried counterparts. While exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes, a typical serving (about 3-4 tenders) is:

• Calories: Approximately 250-350 kcal
• Protein: High; around 25-35g
• Fat: Significantly lower than fried versions, focusing on healthier fats from oil spray.
• Carbohydrates: Moderate, depending on the amount of breading.

This makes them an excellent option for a balanced meal or a guilt-free snack.

Healthier Alternatives for Even More Goodness

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs and flavor preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the first station and certified gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs or almond flour/coconut flour blend in the third station. Ensure your seasonings are also gluten-free.
• Lower Carb: Swap Panko for crushed pork rinds, almond flour, or a mix of almond flour and flaxseed meal. This drastically reduces the carbohydrate count.
• Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour for the first dredge and whole wheat Panko or crushed whole wheat breadcrumbs for a fiber boost.
• Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mix.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair Them With

These versatile chicken tenders are fantastic on their own or as part of a larger meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Classic Comfort: Serve with classic sides like oven-baked fries, sweet potato fries, mashed potatoes, or a creamy coleslaw.
• Healthy Bowl: Make it a healthy grain bowl with quinoa, brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a light dressing.
• Salad Topper: Chop them up and add them to a fresh green salad for a protein boost.
• Sandwich/Wrap Filling: Tuck them into whole wheat buns or tortillas with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
• Dipping Delights: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your chicken tenders are a success every time, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Not Pressing the Breading: Simply tossing the chicken in breadcrumbs won’t create a thick, adhered coating. Gently press the Panko onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: This is the enemy of crispiness! Ensure there is ample space between each tender for hot air to circulate and crisp them up properly.
• Skipping the Oil Spray/Brush: While baking is healthier, a light coating of oil helps the breadcrumbs brown and crisp up beautifully, mimicking the texture of fried tenders.
• Overcooking: Chicken breast can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without going much further.

Storing Your Crispy Chicken Tenders

Leftover baked chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best results when reheating:

• Oven Reheating: This is the best method to restore crispiness. Place tenders on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway, for ultimate crispiness.
• Microwave: This is the fastest but will result in softer tenders. Microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

Note: They are best enjoyed fresh, so try to make only what you plan to eat in one or two sittings.

Baked to Perfection: A Healthier Favorite

Achieving incredibly crispy chicken tenders without frying is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. This recipe proves that you can enjoy all the delightful textures and flavors of classic chicken tenders while opting for a healthier, guilt-free preparation. The key lies in the Panko breadcrumb coating, a well-seasoned flavor profile, and the magic of oven baking with a touch of oil. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a quick lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these crispiest baked chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Give them a try and taste the delicious difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

• Author: Chef Mia

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Description

Thesecrispy baked chicken tendersare juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside, making them the perfect healthier alternative to fried tenders. Packed with flavor from the seasoned breadcrumb coating, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the chicken:1lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into 1-inch strips if using chicken breasts)For the breading:2large eggs, beaten1 cuppanko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)1 tspgarlic powder1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepperFor baking:Olive oil spray
• 1lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into 1-inch strips if using chicken breasts)
• For the breading:2large eggs, beaten1 cuppanko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)1 tspgarlic powder1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepperFor baking:Olive oil spray
• 2large eggs, beaten1 cuppanko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)1 tspgarlic powder1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• 1 cuppanko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)1 tspgarlic powder1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• ½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)1 tspgarlic powder1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• 1 tspgarlic powder1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• 1 tsppaprika½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• ½ tsponion powder½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• ½ tspsalt¼ tspblack pepper
• ¼ tspblack pepper
• For baking:Olive oil spray
• Olive oil spray

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Prep the Chicken:If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch wide strips. Chicken tenders can be used as is.2️⃣Prepare the Breading Stations:In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.In another shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.3️⃣Season the Chicken:Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.4️⃣Bread the Chicken:Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
2. If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch wide strips. Chicken tenders can be used as is.2️⃣Prepare the Breading Stations:In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.In another shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.3️⃣Season the Chicken:Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.4️⃣Bread the Chicken:Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
3. 2️⃣Prepare the Breading Stations:
4. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.In another shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.3️⃣Season the Chicken:Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.4️⃣Bread the Chicken:Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
5. In another shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.3️⃣Season the Chicken:Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.4️⃣Bread the Chicken:Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
6. 3️⃣Season the Chicken:
7. Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.4️⃣Bread the Chicken:Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
8. 4️⃣Bread the Chicken:Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
9. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off.
10. Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
11. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
12. 5️⃣Prepare the Baking Sheet:
13. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
14. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if available; this allows for even air circulation and a crispier result.6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
15. 6️⃣Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:
16. Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
17. 7️⃣Bake the Chicken Tenders:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
18. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
19. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for added crispiness.Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
20. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
21. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
22. 8️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
23. Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
24. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing

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Notes

Custom Coating:Add a bit of grated lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a zesty flavor twist.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to maintain crispiness.Freezer-Friendly:Bread the tenders, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes.
Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to maintain crispiness.Freezer-Friendly:Bread the tenders, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes.
Freezer-Friendly:Bread the tenders, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes.