Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting crunch of freshly baked chicken tenders to bring the family together around the dinner table. These Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders offer a savory snack or a main dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Imagine juicy chicken enveloped in a golden, crispy coating seasoned to perfection. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce or enjoying on their own, these tenders are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined, creating a flavor-packed coating.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they are fully blended and slightly frothy for an extra luscious coating.
- Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere nicely to the tenderloin.
- Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to allow for even cooking.
- Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through, and the coating is a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
- Once done, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious bites while they are warm!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste—adding a dash of cayenne pepper can create a delightful kick!
- For an even crispier texture, consider giving the breadcrumb coating a light spray of cooking oil before baking.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They can be reheated in the oven for the best taste!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily uses the oven to bake the chicken tenders, ensuring they’re light and crispy rather than deep-fried. Whenever possible, using parchment paper can help achieve that perfect texture while making clean-up a breeze. Remember to keep an eye on your tenders in the last few minutes of baking, as ovens can vary and you want to avoid overcooking.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins? Absolutely! Just cut them into strips about the same size as tenderloins for even cooking.
- What dipping sauces work well with these tenders? They pair wonderfully with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a zesty ranch dressing!
- Can these tenders be frozen? Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking! Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Conclusion
There you have it—a quick and easy recipe for perfectly baked chicken tenders that will surely become a family favorite! With their irresistible crunch and flavorful seasoning, these tenders are perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend snacks. Serve them up with your favorite sides or dips, and enjoy the smiles around your table. Happy cooking!