Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Featured in: Cozy Weeknight Dinners

These chicken tenders are coated with a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then baked until crisp and golden. The coating offers a satisfying crunch without frying, creating a healthier alternative that keeps the chicken juicy and tender inside. Preparation requires simple mixing of eggs and seasoning, followed by arranging coated strips on a baking sheet with olive oil for extra crispness. Baking time is short, resulting in a quick, protein-packed dish perfect for any meal.

Updated on Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:55:00 GMT
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders served with zesty dipping sauce, perfect for family dinners.  Save
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders served with zesty dipping sauce, perfect for family dinners. | toastybloom.com

Tender strips of chicken coated in a flavorful, crunchy breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection healthier than fried, but just as delicious.

This recipe has become a family favorite for quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 500 g (1.1 lb) chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • Breading: 100 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 40 g (1/3 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp milk
  • For Baking: Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Preheat oven:
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray or brush with olive oil
Mix coating:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk
Mix breading:
In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
Prepare chicken:
Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels Dip each strip first into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere
Arrange chicken:
Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet Lightly spray or drizzle the tops with olive oil for extra crispiness
Bake:
Bake for 18 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crisp
Rest:
Let rest 2 minutes before serving Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce
Golden, crunchy Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders ready to delight your taste buds at home.  Save
Golden, crunchy Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders ready to delight your taste buds at home. | toastybloom.com

My family always gathers around the table eagerly waiting for these crispy tenders.

Required Tools

Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Shallow bowls, Tongs or fork

Allergen Information

Contains Egg, Milk (Parmesan), Wheat (breadcrumbs). May contain Gluten (breadcrumbs). Check all ingredient labels if you have food allergies.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 290, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 33 g per serving

Enjoy mouthwatering Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, baked to perfection for a healthier treat. Save
Enjoy mouthwatering Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, baked to perfection for a healthier treat. | toastybloom.com

Enjoy these crispy chicken tenders fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe FAQs

How do I ensure chicken tenders stay crispy after baking?

Lightly spraying the coated chicken with olive oil before baking helps create a golden, crispy crust. Baking at a high temperature and flipping halfway ensures even crispness.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, slicing boneless chicken breasts into strips and following the same coating and baking steps works well for a similar texture.

What alternatives exist for panko breadcrumbs?

Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute to accommodate dietary needs without compromising crunchiness.

How can I add extra flavor to the coating?

Incorporate dried Italian herbs or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mix for added depth and a slight kick.

What dipping sauces complement this dish?

Honey mustard, ketchup, or ranch dressing pair wonderfully, enhancing the savory and crunchy elements of the baked chicken strips.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Tender chicken strips coated in a crunchy golden crust, baked to perfection with simple seasoning.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time for Cooking
20 minutes
Complete Time
35 minutes
Recipe Creator Grace Miller

Recipe Group Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Servings Made 4 Portion Count

Dietary Notes None specified

What You Need

Chicken

01 1.1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

Breading

01 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
02 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
03 1 tsp garlic powder
04 1 tsp paprika
05 1/2 tsp salt
06 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Coating

01 2 large eggs
02 2 tbsp milk

For Baking

01 Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with olive oil spray or brush with olive oil.

Step 02

Prepare Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined.

Step 03

Mix Breading Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 04

Coat Chicken Strips: Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels. Dip each strip into the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even coating.

Step 05

Arrange and Oil Chicken: Place coated chicken strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil on top to enhance crispiness.

Step 06

Bake Until Golden: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and coating is golden brown and crisp.

Step 07

Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken tenders rest for 2 minutes before serving. Serve hot with preferred dipping sauces.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Shallow bowls
  • Tongs or fork

Allergy Details

Look over every item for allergens. If unsure, check with your healthcare provider.
  • Contains egg, milk (Parmesan), and wheat (breadcrumbs).
  • May contain gluten from breadcrumbs.

Nutrition (per portion)

For guidance only: not a replacement for professional medical counsel.
  • Energy (Calories): 290
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 33 g