Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are crispy, golden strips of chicken breast coated in seasoned panko and parmesan, baked to perfection for a lighter, mess-free take on a classic comfort food.
There’s something irresistible about that crunchy shell giving way to juicy, tender chicken warm from the oven, filling the kitchen with a cozy, cheesy aroma. I still remember breading tenders with my mom, flour dust swirling and laughter spilling over, eagerly waiting for that first, crispy bite. This recipe gives you all the flavor and texture of your favorite fried tenders, but without the heavy oil or complicated steps just simple pantry staples and the gentle magic of oven baking. Get ready to bake up a batch that’s as comforting as it is easy let’s jump in together!
Why You’ll Love These Tenders
- Crispy, golden edges with a juicy bite: Each tender boasts that oven-kissed crunch you crave, yet stays meltingly tender and moist inside.
- No-fuss, pantry-friendly ingredients: With just a handful of everyday staples, there’s no need for fancy shopping trips or deep fryers in sight.
- Comfort food, made lighter: These chicken tenders bring classic coziness to your table think nostalgic family dinners without the mess or heaviness of frying.
- Playful, versatile, and perfect for sharing: Dip, snack, tuck into sandwiches, or serve on game nights these tenders are a little moment of joy, however you enjoy them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The humble star tender, juicy, and always satisfying, perfect for slicing into strips.
- All-purpose flour: Creates the first coating for ultimate crispiness and helps everything stick together.
- Eggs: Whisked eggs provide the “glue” that lets those crunchy breadcrumbs cling to the chicken.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For that signature, shatteringly crisp bite lighter than traditional breadcrumbs and beautifully golden when baked.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a cheesy depth and salty tang that boosts cozy flavor in every crunchy morsel.
- Garlic powder: Just a sprinkle inspires that subtle, homey aroma and familiar warmth.
- Paprika: A whisper of smoky color and gentle heat it’s what gives your tenders that inviting golden hue.
- Olive oil spray: A light mist ensures your coating crisps up in the oven no deep fryer required!
Feel free to swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or add Italian seasoning if that’s what your pantry offers it’s all about comfort, flexibility, and making it your own.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- Prep Your Station
Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with whisked eggs, and the last with a cozy mix of breadcrumbs, parmesan, and spices. This simple setup brings the memory of breading chicken in a family kitchen flour dust in the air and a giddy, golden promise ahead. - Dredge and Dip
Pat the chicken pieces dry, then generously coat them in seasoned flour. Dip each tender into the eggs so they get a luscious bath think smooth, custardy comfort. - Coat for Crunch
Next, nestle your tenders into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to get every nook covered. Each one should look almost fuzzy with seasoned crumbs. - Arrange with Care
Line your chicken on a parchment- or foil-lined baking sheet, spaced apart for maximum crispiness. Using a wire rack over the sheet is a little touch that means even more crunch without flipping. - Bake Until Golden
Spritz lightly with olive oil. Slide the tray into your hot oven and let your kitchen fill with the smell of buttery cheese and garlic. The tenders will be golden, with extra-crispy edges and juices sparkling underneath when done. If you love crispy coatings, you’ll also enjoy my Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken. - Check for Doneness
They’re ready when the coating’s deeply golden and the chicken inside is moist and just opaque. Serve warm and get dipping!
Tips for the Best Results
- Go big on crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs and give the tenders a light mist of olive oil spray before baking. This gives a shatteringly crisp finish, all without a single drop of frying oil.
- Keep the chicken tender and juicy: Don’t overbake just until the chicken is opaque and juicy inside, with a golden, crunchy shell. Letting them rest briefly after baking helps seal in those flavorful juices.
- Prep in advance for busy nights: Coat the tenders and arrange on a sheet pan, then refrigerate until dinnertime. They’ll hold their crust and bake up beautifully even if prepped a few hours ahead.
- Make cleanup a breeze: Use parchment or foil on your baking sheet and prep your dredging bowls in advance easy, mess-free, and the quickest route to cozy weeknight comfort.
- Store leftovers right: If you love these, you might also appreciate my ultra-juicy Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast for more weeknight inspiration!
Flavor Swaps & Variations
Craving some heat? Toss extra paprika or a pinch of cayenne into your crumb mixture, or swipe tenders in buffalo sauce right before baking for that tangy, spicy kick.
Italian vibes, anyone? Add dried Italian herbs think oregano, basil, and thyme or swap in more Parmesan for a richer, savory coating. Even garlic powder can double up for more warmth.
Love a bakery-fresh crunch? Panko breadcrumbs make these tenders extra shatteringly crisp. You can also try crushed cornflakes or your favorite gluten-free crumbs if needed.
Allergy-friendly swaps are easy here! Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend for dredging, and dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to keep them creamy and golden.
If you’re inspired by comforting remix ideas, peek at Cheesy Chicken Spinach Pasta for another creative comfort meal!
How to Store Leftovers
- In the Fridge: Let your chicken tenders cool, then tuck them into an airtight container. Stored this way, they’ll keep for a few days and still stay pleasantly crisp.
- Freezer-Friendly: Want to plan ahead? Freeze the cooled tenders on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. Reheat straight from frozen to bring back that golden crunch.
- Reheating for Crunch: Pop leftovers in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes this keeps them crispier than microwaving does.
- Lunchbox Upgrade: Slice the tenders up for wraps, salads, or simple grain bowls for a comforting, next-day lunch.
- Meal-Boosting Idea: Leftover tenders make an easy topper for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole the ultimate cozy, no-waste supper.
How to Serve These
- Dunk and Dip: Oven Baked Chicken Tenders beg for a little sauce action. Set out honey mustard, creamy ranch, BBQ, or a zippy buffalo sauce so everyone can create their perfect bite.
- Pair with Cozy Sides: Plate these next to buttery mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or roasted carrots for a balanced meal that tastes like a weeknight win.
- Game Night Favorite: Pile the tenders high on a big platter for a crowd perfect for grazing during family game night or a cozy evening with friends.
- Build a Comfort Platter: Round things out with something hearty like Stuffed Chicken Breast or toss a few alongside Skillet Chicken and Green Beans for a colorful feast.
- Party-Ready Snack: These tenders love to mingle with finger foods. Add them to a spread with veggie sticks, soft rolls, or even cold pasta salad for effortless entertaining.
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with whisked eggs, and the third with mixed panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer and lightly spray them with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I make oven baked chicken tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken tenders earlier in the day and keep them on a lined baking sheet in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven. This little head start can make weeknight dinners feel smooth and stress-free.
What’s the best way to keep oven baked chicken tenders crispy when reheating?
To revive that golden crunch, reheat your tenders in the oven or an air fryer instead of the microwave. A quick 10 minutes at 350°F usually does the trick your kitchen will fill with that wonderful, toasty aroma all over again.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
You sure can! Chicken thighs bring a slightly richer, juicier bite. Slice them into strips just like the breasts and follow the same breading and baking steps. It’ll give your tenders a cozy, extra-tender twist that’s sure to win hearts.
What dipping sauces go well with oven baked chicken tenders?
Try honey mustard for sweet tang, creamy ranch for cool comfort, or a bold BBQ sauce for a smoky touch. For a little zip, go for buffalo or sriracha mayo. Mixing and matching sauces is half the fun let everyone find their personal favorite!
