Baked chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect meal for both kids and adults. This recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in your pantry. However, if you don't usually keep parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs on hand, you may need to pick these up at the supermarket. Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor, while breadcrumbs provide the necessary crunch for the chicken tenders.
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Chicken tenders: These are the main protein for the dish, tender and easy to cook.
Breadcrumbs: Used to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy texture.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the coating.
Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor to the breading.
Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a bit of color.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness to the breading.
Eggs: Used to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken tenders.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To achieve an extra crispy coating on your chicken tenders, try double-dipping them. After the first dip in the beaten eggs and breadcrumb mixture, let them rest for a few minutes. Then, dip them again in the eggs and coat with another layer of the breadcrumb mixture. This will create a thicker, crunchier crust when baked.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
chicken tenders - Substitute with turkey breast strips: Turkey breast strips are lean and have a similar texture to chicken tenders, making them a suitable alternative.
breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a crunchy texture similar to breadcrumbs and can add a slightly different flavor profile.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese like Parmesan, offering a similar taste and texture.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a different but complementary flavor to the dish if garlic powder is unavailable.
paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a bit of heat and a similar depth of flavor to the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture, so adjust accordingly.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and add a tangy flavor.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store or Freeze Your Dish
- Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. For added freshness, you can layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. This keeps the chicken tenders fresh and ready for a quick meal.
- For longer storage, arrange the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until they are solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the chicken tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even heating.
- Avoid microwaving the chicken tenders as it can make them rubbery and less appetizing.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baked chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
Microwave Method: Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.
Skillet Method: Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a nice, crispy exterior.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders on the toaster oven tray. Reheat for 10-12 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even reheating.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the chicken tenders at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Baking sheet: Used to place the coated chicken tenders for baking.
Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until they are well mixed.
Tongs: Used to dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Grater: Used to grate the parmesan cheese if it is not pre-grated.
Cutting board: Used as a surface to prepare the chicken tenders if needed.
Knife: Used to trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken tenders.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Double the batch: Make extra chicken tenders and freeze them for a quick meal later.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping to save time.
Organize your workspace: Arrange all your ingredients and tools within reach to work more efficiently.
Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb Chicken Tenders
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 Eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
More Amazing Recipes to Try 🙂
- Coffee Jelly Recipe15 Minutes
- Dirt Pudding Recipe15 Minutes
- Eggless Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe6 Hours 15 Minutes
- Apple Fritters Recipe25 Minutes
- Puppy Chow Recipe15 Minutes
- Gelato Recipe30 Minutes
- Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe30 Minutes
- Blonde Brownies Recipe35 Minutes
Leave a Reply