Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; olive oil spray

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If you’re searching for the ultimate upgrade to family-friendly comfort food, look no further than these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. Golden and crunchy on the outside while staying remarkably juicy within, this recipe brings restaurant-quality tenders right to your kitchen—minus the frying. The simple marinade infuses every bite with flavor, while a double-layer of panko and Parmesan delivers that craveworthy crunch. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal-prepping for lunchboxes, or craving something nostalgic, these tenders guaranteed to earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a handful of kitchen staples, you’ll be amazed at how each ingredient plays a vital part in the magic of these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. From the creamy buttermilk marinade to the toasty breadcrumb coating, every element adds a special touch to the final texture and flavor.

Chicken tenders: The star of the show; they cook quickly and stay extra juicy with the marinade.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken while adding subtle tang and moisture.
Garlic powder: Layers in warm, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Onion powder: Boosts the overall savory taste without overpowering other spices.
Paprika: For a little color and mild smokiness, paprika makes these tenders pop both visually and in taste.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors in your marinade.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without making it spicy—perfect for all ages.
Panko breadcrumbs: These airy flakes are key for the irresistible, extra-crispy coating.
Regular breadcrumbs: Help the coating stick and give the crust some body.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, salty richness and helps the coating brown.
Olive oil spray: Lightly misting the tenders helps them bake up perfectly golden and crunchy in the oven.

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken tenders with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Toss everything together so the chicken is evenly coated, then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, leaving it overnight in the fridge will yield even more tender and flavorful meat. The buttermilk marinade does wonders for both texture and taste in your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating

While the chicken soaks up all that flavor, mix together the panko, regular breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese in a separate shallow bowl. This mixture is the secret to getting that signature crunch on every bite. Parmesan not only adds umami but helps with browning, making each tender look as good as it tastes.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

One at a time, take each chicken tender out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and dredge it through your breadcrumb mixture. Press the coating onto all sides to make sure it sticks. This step is where the magic happens—layering crispiness around every inch of chicken for unbeatable flavor and texture.

Step 4: Set Up for Baking

Arrange your coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet or, even better, place them on a wire rack set over the sheet. The rack allows hot air to circulate all around the chicken, delivering that next-level crunch. Mist the tops lightly with olive oil spray for an irresistibly golden finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the chicken tenders in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the coating is deeply golden and the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This high-heat bake locks in juiciness and makes every bite as crisp as can be.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with a touch more Parmesan, a pinch of fresh chopped parsley, or even a little flaky sea salt for an extra pop just before serving. These little touches make homemade tenders feel extra special with just seconds of effort.

Side Dishes

Serve these irresistible tenders with classics like homemade fries, roasted veggies, or even a bright, simple salad. Creamy coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, or sweet potato fries all pair perfectly, giving you that wonderful balance of flavors and textures on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders into sliders on mini brioche buns with tangy slaw and pickles, tuck them into wraps with lettuce and tomato, or chop and scatter over salads for a protein punch. They’re also fantastic in lunchboxes with a little dipping sauce on the side for dunking fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your meal, any leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to let them cool fully before sealing them up to keep the coating from steaming and softening.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the baked chicken tenders in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Having some stashed away means easy, crispy tenders are just minutes away on busy nights.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders in a 400°F oven or in an air fryer for a few minutes, flipping once until heated through and craggy-crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soft instead of crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into uniform strips, about 1 inch wide, so they cook evenly and stay juicy like classic tenders.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

No buttermilk? Just combine 1 cup regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let it sit for five minutes, and use as directed.

Are Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

They can be! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free panko and traditional breadcrumbs so everyone can enjoy this crispy goodness.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry them at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The texture gets just as golden and wonderfully crisp.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these tenders?

You can’t go wrong with ranch, honey mustard, classic ketchup, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for anyone who likes a little heat. Mix and match to suit every craving!

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve made these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, you might just find yourself whipping them up on repeat. They’re easy, incredibly tasty, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Give them a try—and get ready for homemade tenders that truly hit the spot!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes (excluding marinating)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders, yet they are just as crunchy and flavorful. Marinated in buttermilk and coated with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, these tenders are baked to perfection, resulting in a delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Tenders:

1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Breadcrumb Coating:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
olive oil spray

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Prepare the coating: In another bowl, mix panko, regular breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Coat the chicken: Remove each tender from the marinade, coat in the breadcrumb mixture, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.