Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Homemade baked chicken tenders are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to your table. With their crunchy golden exterior and juicy interior, these tenders are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a family dinner, movie night, or even a casual get-together with friends. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these chicken tenders burst with flavor, making them not just a meal but a memorable experience.

The sensory joy of biting into these tender pieces of chicken will have your taste buds dancing. This article will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you create a dish that’s not only simple but also delicious. From easy preparation to presentation tips, you’ll soon be serving up these delightful tenders with pride.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: Made with lean chicken breast and vibrant spices.
2. Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it perfect for beginners.
3. Nutrition: A healthier alternative to fried options, packed with protein.
4. Versatility: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
5. Presentation: Beautifully golden, they impress on any plate.

These reasons will make this recipe a favorite in your home!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 30-35 minutes
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

(Note that times may vary.)

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Olive oil spray

How To Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Set up a breading station: one plate with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Dip each chicken strip in flour, followed by the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

   

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Arrange tenders neatly on a platter, garnished with parsley.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.
3. Portions: Offer in small baskets or bowls for casual snacking.
4. Beverage Pairing: Refreshing lemonade or iced tea complements the dish beautifully.

You’ll impress your guests with simple serving tips!

Additional Tips

• For flavor enhancement, consider marinating the chicken strips for an hour.
• Customize with different seasonings like Italian herbs or chili powder.
• Serve with fresh veggies or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mix for spice.
2. Honey Mustard Glazed: Brush with honey mustard before baking for added flavor.
3. Herb-Crusted Tenders: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme with breadcrumbs for a fresh twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Let cooked tenders cool completely, then store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs
• Knife for cutting chicken

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but ensure to thaw thoroughly before cooking for even results.

2. Is this a healthy recipe?
   Absolutely! It uses lean chicken and is baked instead of fried, making it healthier.

3. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

4. Can I customize the flavors?
   Definitely! You can add different spices or even cheese to the breadcrumb mix.

5. What if I want to use a different cooking method?
   You can also pan-fry or air-fry the tenders for a different texture!

Conclusion

Homemade baked chicken tenders are not only simple to make but also a healthier and flavorful option for any occasion. Their delicious taste and satisfying crunch make them a hit with both kids and adults. So, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun party snack, give this recipe a try! You’ll be glad you did.
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Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Delicious and healthy baked chicken tenders with a crunchy golden exterior and juicy interior, perfect for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 pieces

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips Use lean chicken for healthier options.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• as needed Olive oil spray For a lighter version, use spray instead of oil.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Set up a breading station: one plate with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Dip each chicken strip in flour, followed by the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil.

Cooking

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
2. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For flavor enhancement, consider marinating the chicken strips for an hour. Customize with different seasonings like Italian herbs or chili powder. Serve with fresh veggies or a crisp salad for a complete meal.