Who doesn’t love crispy, golden chicken tenders? But let’s be real—deep frying is messy, calorie-packed, and honestly, who has the patience? Enter Dinner In The Oven Meals that deliver all the crunch, all the flavor, and none of the guilt. Yep, we’re talking about Homemade Chicken Tenders Oven style that are juicy on the inside, perfectly golden on the outside, and insanely easy to whip up.
If you’re hunting for Good Easy Meal Prep Ideas or looking for Homemade Supper Ideas that will satisfy both kids and adults, these tenders check every box. And FYI, once your family tastes them, seconds (and thirds) are basically guaranteed.
Why These Chicken Tenders Are Irresistible
Let’s break it down. What makes these tenders stand out?
- Crispy Coating: Using panko breadcrumbs—or crushed cornflakes if you’re feeling adventurous—gives a crunch that rivals fried tenders. Sprinkle in some Parmesan for an extra flavor punch.
- Juicy Interior: Chicken tends to dry out in the oven, but these stay tender thanks to proper seasoning, a quick egg dip, and a precise bake time.
- Flavor Boost: Garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and a dash of cayenne (if you like it spicy) elevate the taste. Seriously, you’ll want to skip the sauce—but don’t, because honey mustard or ranch is a dream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the lowdown on what goes into these golden beauties:
- Chicken: Fresh chicken breasts cut into strips or pre-cut chicken tenders. Both work!
- Breadcrumbs: Panko for ultimate crunch, or swap with regular breadcrumbs/cornflakes for a twist.
- Eggs: Helps the coating stick and keeps the tender juicy.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder—and optional Parmesan or cayenne.
These pantry staples are all you need to make Easy Healthy Chicken Tender Recipes that rival any restaurant.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Your Chicken
If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch strips. Pre-cut tenders? Skip this step.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
- Egg Bowl: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Breadcrumb Bowl: Combine panko, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Season and Coat
- Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
- Dip each piece into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb process (double coating).
4. Arrange for Baking
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Optional: Use a wire rack on top for air circulation—this makes the tenders extra crispy.
- Leave space between each piece so they bake evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil.
- Bake 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Check doneness: Internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Maximum Crispiness
- Wire Rack: Air circulation = crunchier tenders.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each tender breathing room.
- Double Coat: More layers = more crunch.
Little tweaks like these transform your Homemade Supper Ideas from good to WOW.
What to Serve with Your Chicken Tenders
Even the best Dinners With Chicken Tenderloins shine brighter with the right sides. Here are some favorites:
- Healthy Side Dishes: Roasted veggies, baked sweet potato fries, or a crisp salad.
- Dipping Sauces: Honey mustard, BBQ, ranch, or ketchup—take your pick!
- Meal Prep Magic: Make a batch for the week. Pair with rice, quinoa, or veggies for Recipes Chicken Tenderloins that are ready when you are.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
- Cheesy Crunch: Mix shredded Parmesan directly into the breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Swap panko for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Quick Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
- Freeze: Bread the chicken, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—add 5 minutes to the cook time.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the chicken, bread it, and bake later. Or cook fully and refrigerate; reheat in the oven to restore the crunch.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use a wire rack and/or double coat the tenders. Even a light olive oil spray helps.
Can I use chicken tenderloins instead of breasts?
Yes! They cook faster and stay juicy. Perfect for Chicken Recipes Tenderloins.
Can these be part of meal prep?
Totally. Pair with Good Easy Meal Prep Ideas like roasted veggies or quinoa for an easy lunch or dinner option.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back
These baked chicken tenders hit all the marks: crispy, juicy, flavorful, and super simple. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend feast, they’re a go-to for Dinner Ideas Homemade that everyone will enjoy. Bonus: they’re way healthier than fried versions, making them a winner for both taste and nutrition.
If you love Easy Healthy Chicken Tender Recipes and want a foolproof dish that pleases everyone at the table, this is it. Pair with a dipping sauce, a fresh side, and voilà—dinner is served!
Dinner in the Oven Meals – Golden Baked Chicken Tenders Everyone Loves!
If you love crispy chicken tenders but want to skip the fryer, this homemade baked chicken tenders recipe is your new go-to. These juicy strips are coated in a crunchy, golden breadcrumb crust, baked to perfection, and perfect for a weeknight dinner, family meal, or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or pre-cut chicken tenders, sliced into 1-inch strips
- 2 large eggs, beaten until smooth
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1-inch wide. If you already have chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
- Set Up Breading Stations
- Egg Station: Beat the eggs in a bowl until smooth.
- Breadcrumb Station: In another bowl, combine panko (or regular) breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken
- Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double layer.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. Optional: place a wire rack on top to let air circulate around the tenders for even crisping.
- 6. Arrange and Bake
- Place the breaded chicken strips on the sheet or wire rack, leaving space between each piece.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil to boost crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dips—honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, or any sauce you love.
Notes
- Wire Rack for Crispiness: Elevating the tenders allows hot air to circulate, giving a crunchier coating.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the chicken out so each piece bakes evenly.
- Double Dip: Extra layer of egg and breadcrumbs = ultra-crispy texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Bake a large batch and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 375 kcal
