There’s something magical about biting into a crispy chicken tender, isn’t there? The perfect crunch on the outside gives way to juicy, tender chicken that dances with flavor. Picture this: a golden-brown exterior, seasoned just right, and as you dip it into your favorite sauce, the taste explosion is enough to make any meal feel like a celebration. Easy baked chicken tenders are not just another dinner option; they’re the culinary equivalent of a warm hug after a long day.
I still remember the first time I tried to impress my friends with my culinary skills. I opted for these easy baked chicken tenders, thinking that if all else failed, at least we would have takeout on speed dial. As it turned out, they were a hit! Now, these tenders are my go-to recipe for everything from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings. The best part? They are so simple to whip up that you’ll wonder why you ever thought cooking was hard. Get ready to savor every bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These easy baked chicken tenders are a breeze to prepare, making dinner stress-free and fun.
- The flavor is irresistible, with the perfect blend of spices delivering a mouthwatering experience.
- Visually appealing with their golden crust, they look as good as they taste!
- Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be served with various dips or sides for any occasion.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the tenders that irresistible crunch; regular breadcrumbs work too but won’t be quite as crispy.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it adds depth and aroma without overpowering the other spices.
- Onion Powder: Complementary to garlic powder; this brings a savory touch that makes the flavors pop.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to taste for your desired level of seasoning.
- Olive Oil: Helps the breadcrumbs stick and promotes browning in the oven; feel free to substitute with another oil if needed.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray—this will prevent any sticky situations later.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Aim for about an inch wide—this ensures even cooking and allows for maximum dippage potential.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Stations
In one bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken strips—this will help our breadcrumb mixture adhere perfectly.
Step 4: Coat Your Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the oil first and then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down slightly so that they really cling to those tasty morsels.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the coated strips on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F/75°C).
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Transfer those glorious tenders to plates and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard. Enjoy every crispy bite!
And there you have it! With just a few simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ve created some spectacular easy baked chicken tenders that will impress everyone around your dinner table—or wherever you choose to devour them!
You Must Know
- This amazing easy baked chicken tenders recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for baking but versatile enough for frying or grilling.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, prepare your chicken tenders and breading station. Once everything is set, bake the tenders for about 20-25 minutes for crispy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the seasonings! Try adding some garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to elevate your easy baked chicken tenders. You can also swap breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover easy baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to pat dry the chicken before breading; this helps the coating stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet; give those tenders space to crisp up perfectly.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces to keep things exciting and flavorful!
It still makes me chuckle when I recall my first attempt at making easy baked chicken tenders. My family had no idea I was using frozen ones from the store—until I accidentally dropped one on the floor and it bounced back!
FAQs:
What are Easy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders are a simple and delicious way to enjoy chicken without the need for frying. These tenders are made from boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are coated in breadcrumbs and baked until golden and crispy. This method not only makes them healthier but also retains the juicy flavor of the chicken. You can customize the seasoning to suit your taste, making this recipe versatile for any meal.
How long do I bake Easy Baked Chicken Tenders?
To achieve perfectly cooked Easy Baked Chicken Tenders, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes. It’s essential to flip the tenders halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken strips.
Can I make Easy Baked Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Easy Baked Chicken Tenders ahead of time! Simply coat the chicken in breadcrumbs and seasonings, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights or meal prep!
What can I serve with Easy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders pair well with various side dishes. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing to enhance their flavor. These tenders are perfect for lunchboxes or casual dinners!
Conclusion for Easy Baked Chicken Tenders:
In summary, Easy Baked Chicken Tenders provide a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional fried chicken. With minimal preparation time and simple ingredients, they make a great choice for busy families or anyone craving comfort food. Baking rather than frying keeps these tenders light while still delivering on flavor and texture. Enjoy customizing your seasoning and pairing them with various sides for a delightful meal any night of the week!
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders are your go-to recipe for a delicious, stress-free meal that combines a crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful chicken. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these tenders are quick to prepare and can be served with a variety of dips and sides. With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies every palate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips, about 1 inch wide.
- In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken strips.
- Dip each chicken strip in the oil first, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For extra crunch, try using crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs. - Customize seasonings by adding paprika or Parmesan cheese for additional flavor.
