How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders: Quick, Guilt-Free Indulgence

Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

JUMP TO RECIPE

Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Chicken Tenders! I remember the first time I decided to make these crispy, golden delights. I was craving something indulgent yet guilt-free, and let me tell you, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. I’ve made it countless times, and every single time, my family and friends rave about how delicious and satisfying these tenders are. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Quick and Easy: These chicken tenders come together faster than you can say “dinner is served.” Perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, they are a guilt-free indulgence that still delivers on flavor.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning or add different herbs to match your family’s taste preferences.
Perfectly Crispy: With a seasoned breadcrumb coating, you’ll enjoy that satisfying crunch in every bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance for those days when you know you’ll need a quick meal.

The Secret to Perfect Chicken Tenders

The magic behind these chicken tenders lies in the breadcrumb mixture. I use a combination of panko breadcrumbs, which gives them that irresistible crunch, and a medley of fresh herbs and spices that infuse incredible flavor. My insider tip? Let the chicken marinate in a little buttermilk before you coat it. This step ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender while baking. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers

“These chicken tenders are the best I’ve ever had! They are so crispy and full of flavor. My kids devoured them!” – Sarah J.

“I made these for game day, and they disappeared in minutes! Everyone loved them, and I loved that they were baked!” – Mike T.

“I never thought I could make chicken tenders this good at home! They taste just like my favorite restaurant!” – Lisa R.

Creative Variations to Try

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Add some cayenne pepper to your breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick.
Herb and Garlic Chicken Tenders: Mix in garlic powder and your favorite dried herbs for an aromatic twist.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders: Incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a rich flavor.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Tenders: Use sesame seeds and soy sauce in the marinade for a unique flavor profile.

Bonus: For a fun twist, try serving your chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces to please everyone’s palate!

FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!

Can I freeze chicken tenders? Absolutely! They freeze well before or after baking. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? You can use crushed cornflakes, ground almonds, or even crushed crackers for a different texture and flavor.

How long do they take to bake? Typically, they take about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F. Just keep an eye on them for that golden color.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully! They may take a bit longer to cook through.

Storage/Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can reheat them in the oven for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ for a delicious variety!

Perfect Occasions for Chicken Tenders

Family dinners that need a comforting touch.
Game day snacks that will wow your friends.
Birthday parties where kids and adults alike will rejoice.
Casual get-togethers where everyone loves finger food.
Movie nights when you want something delicious to munch on.

The Complete Recipe

Thanks for sticking around! I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy these delicious chicken tenders at home.

Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or Italian seasoning to the flour mixture.

Extend ingredients section: You can swap in whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option, and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken strips in a large bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). This step is key for flavor and tenderness!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture is where the magic happens—so make sure it’s evenly combined!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, take each strip and dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you finish coating the chicken. Spray each tender lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let the chicken tenders cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear! These tenders are not just a meal; they’re an experience!

Nutrition Info: Approximately 250 calories per serving (4 tenders), with protein and fiber that will keep you satisfied.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! These crispy baked chicken tenders are more than just a recipe; they are a way to bring joy to your table. I can’t wait for you to try them out and see how they become a favorite in your home, just like they are in mine. So gather your ingredients, set your oven, and get ready for a delicious adventure that I promise you won’t regret!