Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Printer-Friendly)

Crunchy baked chicken tenders—juicy inside, golden outside, family-friendly and easy to make for any meal.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1 cup cornflakes, crushed
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Dredging

08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 2 tablespoons milk

→ For the Pan

10 - Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

# How to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with nonstick spray.
02 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with milk until fully blended.
04 - Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels.
05 - Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat completely with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently for adhesion.
06 - Transfer coated chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil to promote crispness.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once at the halfway mark, until crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Let chicken tenders rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 35 minutes so perfect for weeknights
  • Uses simple pantry staples you probably have around
  • Healthier than fried but still super crispy with zero deep-frying
  • Customizable with your favorite spices and dipping sauces
02 -
  • High in protein for a balanced meal
  • Lower in fat than most fried options
  • Can go gluten free by using suitable breadcrumbs and cornflakes
03 -
  • Press the coating in with your hands for a thicker crunchier crust
  • Always use high heat in the oven or the breading will go soft before the chicken is cooked
  • Letting them rest a minute or two before serving retains juiciness
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