Welcome to Easy Crispy Recipes, where we transform everyday ingredients into mouthwatering meals! Today, we’re diving into a family favorite: the Ultimate Baked Chicken Tenders. This recipe promises crispy, tender chicken that’s healthier and just as delicious as its fried counterparts. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep enthusiast, this recipe is perfect for you.
Chicken tenders have long been a staple in many households. Traditionally deep-fried and coated in breadcrumbs, they can be heavy and greasy. Our baked version offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing any of the flavor or crunch you love. By baking rather than frying, we cut down on the calories while still delivering an irresistible crispiness.
Let’s get into the details of how to make these ultimate baked chicken tenders that will become your go-to recipe for a quick and tasty meal!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the Ultimate Baked Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders (about 10-12 pieces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (or a small amount of olive oil)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the tenders cook evenly and become crispy.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes for breading:
- In the first dish, place the flour.
- In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In the third dish, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Coating the Chicken Tenders
- Coat with Flour: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken.
- Dip in Egg Mixture: Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumb Mixture: Finally, press the chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it completely. For extra crunch, press down slightly on the breadcrumbs.
Baking
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack. Ensure they are spaced evenly to allow air circulation, which helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
- Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This step helps the tenders develop a golden, crispy coating.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. They’re perfect on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch.
Tips and Variations
- For Extra Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Add Some Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture, such as thyme, basil, or cumin, to customize the flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving of Ultimate Baked Chicken Tenders (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
The Ultimate Baked Chicken Tenders recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. It offers the perfect balance of crispy and tender, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to traditional fried chicken tenders. Give this recipe a try, and we’re sure it will become a staple in your kitchen.