Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are the perfect go-to meal when you want something crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and all without the mess of frying. They’re coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mix that bakes up golden and crispy, making them a great snack or meal for kids and adults alike.
I love making these tenders because they’re so easy to throw together, and you get that satisfying crunch without all the oil. A little tip I use is to spray the coated chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking—it helps get that extra crispy finish that makes them so addictive.
These chicken tenders are great served with your favorite dipping sauces, like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. I often serve them alongside some fresh veggies or a simple salad for a quick and tasty dinner the whole family enjoys. They’re a hit every time and make mealtime fun and stress-free!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: These are naturally tender and cook quickly. You can also use chicken breast strips if tenders aren’t available, but they might need a bit more baking time.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch because it’s coarser than regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers work well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor and helps crisp up the coating. If you want a dairy-free option, just skip the cheese and add a pinch more seasoning.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper give the chicken great flavor. Feel free to adjust these based on your taste or add a little chili powder for spice.
Eggs and Milk: These help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. For a dairy-free swap, use a little water or plant-based milk.
How Do You Get Chicken Tenders Extra Crispy Without Frying?
Getting that crispy outside without frying can be tricky, but these tips help make sure your chicken tenders come out crunchy every time:
- Coat Well: After dipping the chicken in the egg mixture, press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto each piece. This helps the coating stick and creates a thick crust.
- Use Panko: Panko breadcrumbs are bigger and crisp up better than regular crumbs.
- Cooking Spray: Don’t skip spraying the tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking. This adds a bit of fat that helps them brown and crisp.
- Space Them Out: Place the tenders on the baking sheet without crowding. Good air circulation helps the coating stay crispy.
- Flip Halfway: Turn the tenders once during baking so both sides get golden and crunchy.
Following these simple steps makes your oven baked chicken tenders just as crispy as fried ones, but with less mess and fewer calories. Enjoy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend a rimmed one to contain any drips and make cleanup easier.
- Shallow bowls – one for the egg wash and one for the breadcrumb mixture, making coating simple.
- Wire rack (optional) – helps air circulate around the chicken for extra crispiness if you have one.
- Measuring cups and spoons – handy for keeping the seasonings precise.
- Cooking spray – I like a spray for even, light coating that helps crisp the tenders.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spice it up with cayenne pepper or chili powder for some heat. Perfect if you like a little kick!
- Try using different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a milder or melty flavor.
- Add some crushed herbs like thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mix for more aroma and taste.
- For a different protein, swap chicken with turkey tenders or even tofu strips for a vegetarian option.
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Equipment You’ll Need
- Rimmed baking sheet – to hold the tenders and catch any drips
- Shallow bowls – one for the egg wash and one for the breadcrumb mix
- Wire rack (optional) – to place on the baking sheet for extra crispiness by allowing air flow around the tenders
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
- Cooking spray – for lightly coating the tenders to help crisp the coating
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
- Try swapping Parmesan for cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
- Mix in dried herbs like thyme, oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning to the coating for extra aroma.
- For a protein twist, try turkey tenders or firm tofu strips seasoned and coated the same way.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed nuts as a coating.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Tenders for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator before coating and baking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crispier coating.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Tenders?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help retain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Chicken Tenders Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese and substitute regular milk with a plant-based milk. You can also add extra seasoning to boost flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat These Chicken Tenders?
To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven or an air fryer rather than the microwave. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
