Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, your cravings end right here! Golden on the outside, juicy within, and so crunchy you’ll wonder if they were actually fried—these chicken tenders are a total crowd-pleaser for adults and kids alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This star lineup of ingredients is simple but purposeful—each one is chosen to maximize crunch, juiciness, and flavor in every bite. Trust me, skipping or swapping the wrong stuff just isn’t the same (especially when it comes to that magical panko!).

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Don’t skimp here—panko creates that signature extra-crispy bite, providing a crackly, golden exterior that shames any regular breadcrumb.
• Egg: Acts as a binder for the batter, helping all that delicious flavor cling to the chicken and crisp up in the oven.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and subtle richness to the batter, keeping the tenders wonderfully juicy.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings tang, depth, and a hint of savoriness—feel free to use your favorite mustard for a subtle flavor twist.
• Flour: Just a spoonful helps the batter hold together for the perfect coating.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the batter and the final bite.
• Chicken Tenderloins (or Sliced Breast): Tender, lean, and cook up beautifully—slice breasts lengthwise if you can’t find tenderloins.
• Oil Spray: A light spritz helps everything brown up perfectly crisp without excess oil or greasiness.

Variations

The beauty of Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders is how easily you can tailor them to your mood or pantry! Don’t be shy—these are made for riffs, swaps, and personal touches.

• Spicy Chicken Tenders: Stir a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne into the batter for a gentle heat that makes every bite sizzle.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap panko for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs—a little extra crunch may come from rice or corn-based versions.
• Parmesan Crust: Add a handful of grated Parmesan to the panko before breading for cheesy, sophisticated flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Toss dried parsley, dill, or Italian seasoning into the batter or crumbs for an herby, fresh twist.

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs

Start your journey to irresistible oven-baked crunch by toasting the panko! Spread them out on a baking tray, give a light spray of oil, and bake for 3–5 minutes until they’re just golden. This quick step is truly the secret to that “fried” flavor and texture—brilliant, right?

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Tray

Set a wire rack over your baking tray if you have one—it elevates the tenders so hot air can work its magic underneath for ultra-even crispiness. No worries if you don’t, but it’s a handy trick for the crispiest chicken tenders.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together the egg, mayo, Dijon mustard, flour, salt, and pepper until completely smooth. This flavorful batter ensures your chicken comes out incredibly moist and coats each piece in flavor before it meets the panko.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Add the chicken tenderloins (or sliced breasts) into the batter, and toss to evenly coat. Every piece should be slicked in that tangy, creamy mixture for the tastiest results.

Step 5: Crumb and Tray Up

Using tongs, lift each piece from the batter, drop it into the bowl of toasted panko, and sprinkle crumbs over the top. Gently press down so the panko adheres, then transfer to the prepared rack or tray. Admire those tidy, clean fingers—no sticky mess here! Repeat with the rest of your chicken.

Step 6: Spray, Season, and Bake

Lightly spray the tops of the breaded tenders with oil, and if you like, a pinch of salt. Bake in the hot oven for about 15 minutes (or up to 20 if your tenders are especially thick), just until the coating is golden and the chicken is cooked through. Overbaking can dry them out—so keep a close eye!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Lift your golden, piping hot Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders straight from the tray and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Honey mustard or ranch, anyone? A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a finishing flourish.

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a breath of freshness. If you’re feeling bold, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of smoked paprika takes things up a notch—simple touches make these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders look and taste extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair these tenders with crisp oven fries, a tangy coleslaw, or cool cucumber slices for the ultimate comfort plate. They’re also wonderful alongside a green salad, steamed veggies, or a simple pile of buttered corn on the cob—whatever balances out the crunch!

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling the chicken tenders in a basket lined with parchment for a party snack, or arrange them artfully on a platter with colorful veggies and dipping sauces. For a fun twist, slice and stuff them into wrap sandwiches, or layer onto cheesy toast for an irresistible crispy chicken melt.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and safe to eat for up to 3 days—perfect for tossing into salads or wraps for lunch the next day.

Freezing

Baked, cooled tenders freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—simply reheat straight from frozen for a quick meal or snack.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the tenders in a hot oven (200°C/390°F) for about 3–5 minutes until warmed through and the coating crisps up again. Skip the microwave—it makes the breading soggy. If reheating from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you fall in love with these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders as quickly as I did! Whether it’s a family dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or a next-level snack, these golden tenders truly deliver on flavor and fun. Give them a try and let your oven work its magic—you won’t miss the fryer, I promise!

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