Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
There’s nothing quite like homemade baked chicken tenders to satisfy your cravings for a crispy, delicious treat. This recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken tenders, providing you with golden-brown strips of chicken that are easy to make and utterly delicious.
Why Make This Recipe
Homemade baked chicken tenders are not only a fun and easy meal to prepare, but they’re also a hit with both kids and adults alike. By making these tenders at home, you control the ingredients, allowing you to innovate with flavors and ensure they are free from preservatives and excess fat. Plus, they make for a perfect snack, appetizer, or main dish when paired with your favorite sides. So why not treat yourself and your family to this wholesome delight?
How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Creating these crispy chicken tenders is simple and straightforward. Follow the steps below to whip up a batch that will please everyone at your dinner table.
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Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, dip it in the eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Success with Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
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Ensure an Even Coating: For the crispiest tenders, make sure each chicken strip is thoroughly coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This helps create that perfect crust.
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Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: A light spray of olive oil not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve that golden-brown finish while keeping the tenders moist.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and newer spices amplify the flavor of your tenders. Old spices may lose their potency, resulting in dull-tasting chicken.
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Experiment with Breadcrumbs: Try using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or seasoned breadcrumbs for an added flavor kick.
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Check for Doneness: Ensure that your chicken tenders are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Keep It Cool: If you’re making a larger batch, let the tenders cool on a wire rack instead of the baking sheet. This prevents them from getting soggy on the bottom.
Flavor Variations for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy rendition that will get your taste buds dancing.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil with your breadcrumbs for a fresh and aromatic twist.
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Parmesan Boost: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy, savory flavor.
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Sweet and Savory: Brush a bit of honey or maple syrup on the tenders before baking to create a sweet glaze that pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of hot sauce.
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Zesty Citrus: Add some lemon or lime zest to the breadcrumb mix. This gives the tenders a refreshing zest that complements the chicken beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
These baked chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Pair with a side of homemade coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
- Serve them with a selection of dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
- Create a chicken tender wrap by placing them in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
- Offer alongside air-fried sweet potato fries for a classic diner-style meal.
- Use as a topping for a fresh salad for a nutritious, filling lunch option.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
To store your chicken tenders, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you’d like to freeze them, follow these steps:
- Allow the tenders to cool completely.
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
Frozen chicken tenders can be reheated directly from the freezer. Just pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until nicely heated through.
Nutrition Facts for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————-|————-|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
FAQ About Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicier result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if the strips are larger or thicker.
How can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chicken tenders, substitute the regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What is the best way to reheat chicken tenders?
The best way to reheat chicken tenders is in an oven to maintain their crispiness. Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I prepare the chicken tenders in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders, bread them, and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. For longer storage, consider freezing them as outlined above.
What dipping sauces pair best with chicken tenders?
Some popular dipping sauces for chicken tenders include ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ketchup, or a spicy sriracha mayo blend. Feel free to create your own signature sauce!
Final Thoughts
Homemade baked chicken tenders are a delightful snack or meal option, perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual gatherings with friends. They are quick to prepare, taste fantastic, and can be customized with a variety of flavors and dips. With this recipe, you can indulge in a healthier alternative to fried chicken, all while enjoying the fun of homemade cooking. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the taste of these crispy, golden-brown tenders!
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Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Crispy and delicious homemade baked chicken tenders, providing a healthier twist on the classic fried version.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, dip it in the eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Feel free to experiment with different breadcrumb types.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 240mg
