Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a wholesome, delicious option for dinner that everyone in the family can enjoy. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this recipe allows you to indulge in a classic favorite without the guilt that often comes with fried options. Perfect for a busy weeknight or as a fun cooking project on the weekend, these homemade chicken tenders are a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With a handful of common ingredients, these baked chicken tenders come together quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight meal. Unlike store-bought versions that may be loaded with preservatives, this homemade alternative is fresh and customizable. The crispy breadcrumb coating, laced with savory Parmesan cheese and rich spices, enhances the chicken’s natural flavor without overpowering it.

“I made these for my family’s movie night, and they disappeared in minutes! The kids loved them dipped in honey mustard. Definitely a keeper!”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

The process for making these chicken tenders is both straightforward and satisfying. First, you’ll preheat your oven, which sets the stage for perfectly baked chicken. Next, the chicken strips are dipped in a simple egg wash before being coated in a zesty breadcrumb mixture. With everything ready, it’s just a matter of letting the oven do its magic, resulting in deliciously crispy and juicy tenders that are sure to impress.

Gather Your Ingredients

To get started, here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Feel free to use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option or swap out the Parmesan for your favorite cheese to add a unique twist.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. Next, roll the egg-coated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until well covered.
5. Arrange the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

Perfect Pairings for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For the young and the young-at-heart, a selection of dipping sauces—such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue—can elevate the dining experience. Consider adding some crunchy veggies or fruit slices to make it a colorful platter that’s both tasty and visually appealing.

Best Way to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Storing these chicken tenders is easy! Place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat them again, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to re-crisp them. If you wish to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Pro Chef Tips

To take your chicken tenders to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

• Marinating: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken strips in a bit of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before breading.
• Double-Dipping: If you like an extra-crispy crust, try double-dipping the chicken in the egg wash and breadcrumbs.
• Food Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Creative Twists

While this recipe is delicious as it is, you can explore various flavors and toppings. Add some Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for a Mediterranean flair, or experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or feta. For a spicy version, toss in some cayenne pepper or use spicy breadcrumbs. You can also turn it into a sandwich with some fresh lettuce and tomato or serve it over a bed of quinoa for a hearty meal.

Your Questions Answered

What’s the prep time and total time for this recipe?

The prep time takes about 10 minutes, and the total time, including baking, comes to about 30 minutes.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before slicing and breading.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.

These Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are not only easy to make but are sure to be a hit at your dining table. Perfect for any occasion, they bring together wholesome ingredients for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

These homemade baked chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a wholesome option for dinner that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. Roll the egg-coated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until well covered.
5. Arrange the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken, baked chicken tenders, healthy dinner, family meal, easy recipe