Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is one of my all-time favorite dishes. Over the years, I have perfected this recipe to make it not just delicious but also easy to prepare. Whenever I make these tenders, I am flooded with memories of my family gathered around the dinner table, excited for a meal that is both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Making baked chicken tenders starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
Chicken Tenders Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works great)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Optional Dipping Sauces
How to Prepare Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
The preparation of chicken tenders is simple and quick. I remember the first time I made these tenders; I was surprised at how easy it was. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three bowls. In the first bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. In the second bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The third bowl can remain empty for now.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil. This helps them get golden and crispy.
Baking the Chicken Tenders
Baking is the best part. I love watching the tenders turn golden brown in the oven. Here’s what to do:
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep them juicy.
Tips for Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Over the years, I have learned a few tips to make these tenders even better. Here are my favorites:
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders yield the best flavor and texture. Frozen tenders can be used but may require extra baking time.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture. A bit of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Almond flour can also work well.
- Add Flavor to the Eggs: Mix in a bit of mustard or hot sauce into the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving baked chicken tenders, the options are endless. Here are some ideas:
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing for a fun touch.
- On a Salad: Slice the tenders and place them on a fresh salad. It adds protein and makes the meal more filling.
- In a Wrap: Create a delicious wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce. It’s a great lunch option!
- With Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of fries for a complete meal.
Making Baked Chicken Tenders Ahead of Time
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. Here’s how:
- Prep and Freeze: After coating the chicken tenders, you can freeze them before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag.
- Baking from Frozen: When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Storing Leftover Chicken Tenders
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key. Here’s what I do:
- Refrigerate: Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep them crispy.
Nutritional Information
Knowing the nutritional value of baked chicken tenders can help in meal planning. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
This recipe has become a staple in my home for many reasons.
- Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying makes these tenders a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: My kids love these tenders, making them a hit at family dinners.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasoning and serve them in various ways, keeping meals exciting.
- Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze, allowing more time to enjoy the meal.
Baked Chicken Tenders are a dish I return to time and again. They are simple to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these tenders are sure to impress. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do!