Best Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders: Quick & Healthy Recipe

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are more than just a meal; they are a delightful journey back to comforting simplicity, redefined for a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or that satisfying crunch. I know many of you, like myself, cherish those moments around the dinner table where everyone, from the pickiest eater to the most discerning palate, finds something to savor. This beloved dish, a staple in American comfort food culture, truly shines when prepared right at home.

While often associated with quick-service restaurants, the tenderloin cut itself has always been prized for its delicate texture. Elevating this humble cut into a crispy, golden-brown masterpiece through baking rather than frying offers an incredible advantage: a guilt-free indulgence that’s incredibly easy to prepare.

It’s this irresistible combination of a perfectly seasoned, juicy interior and a wonderfully crisp exterior that makes our Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders a perpetual family favorite.

They are incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with an array of dips and sides, making them ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even as a satisfying snack. Preparing your own ensures you control every ingredient, leading to a superior taste and a healthier outcome. Get ready to transform a simple ingredient into an extraordinary culinary experience!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

Creating these incredibly delicious and crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders requires a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what we’ll need to make magic happen:

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Chicken Tenderloins: I often opt for chicken breasts and cut them into strips myself because it gives me more control over the size and thickness. If you use pre-packaged tenderloins, that’s perfectly fine too! Just ensure they’re fresh and ready for some tender loving care.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt: A good base seasoning is key.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground makes all the difference!
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a wonderful aromatic depth.
• For the Breading Station:
  • First Dredge (Flour Mixture):
    • ½ cup All-Purpose Flour: This provides the initial coating for our chicken.
    • ½ teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer.
    • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: More seasoning goodness.
    • ¼ teaspoon Paprika: For a touch of color and mild flavor.
  • Second Dredge (Egg Wash):
    • 2 large Eggs: The binding agent that helps the breadcrumbs stick.
    • 1 tablespoon Milk or Water: Thins out the egg wash slightly for better coating.
    • Pinch of Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season the egg wash!
  • Third Dredge (Breadcrumb Mixture):
    • 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs: This is your secret weapon for ultimate crispiness! Panko is much flakier and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, leading to a superior crunch.
    • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional, but highly recommended): Adds a fantastic savory, umami flavor and helps with browning.
    • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
    • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder: Another layer of savory goodness.
    • ½ teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme): For an herbaceous touch that complements the chicken beautifully.
    • ¼ teaspoon Paprika (or Smoked Paprika for an extra kick): For color and a subtle warmth.
    • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a little heat): If you like a tiny bit of spice, this is a great addition.
• For Baking:
  • Non-stick Cooking Spray or 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: To help with crisping and prevent sticking.
• For Serving (Optional Dipping Sauces):
  • Honey Mustard, Ranch, BBQ Sauce, Ketchup, Sweet Chili Sauce, or your favorite dip!

Prepping Our Chicken Tenders for Perfection

Before we dive into the fun part of breading, it’s crucial to prepare our chicken properly. This step lays the foundation for truly succulent and flavorful Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders.

1. Thaw and Pat Dry the Chicken: If your chicken breasts or tenderloins are frozen, make sure they are completely thawed. Once thawed, this is a critical step: generously pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a crispier coating. Wet chicken leads to soggy breading, and we definitely don’t want that!
2. Trim Any Excess: Take a moment to trim off any visible fat or sinew from the chicken. This isn’t just for aesthetics; it also ensures a more uniform texture when biting into your tender.
3. Cut into Tender Shapes (if using breasts): If you’re starting with whole chicken breasts, place one breast on a cutting board. Carefully slice it lengthwise into 3-4 even strips, aiming for pieces that are roughly ½ to ¾ inch thick and about 3-4 inches long. Think of the typical size and shape of a chicken tender. If some pieces are thicker than others, you might want to gently pound them between two sheets of plastic wrap using a meat mallet or the flat side of a heavy pan to achieve a more even thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly.
4. Season the Chicken Directly: Place your prepared chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder directly over the chicken. Using your hands (or tongs), gently toss the chicken until each piece is evenly coated with the seasonings. This initial seasoning is vital because it flavors the chicken itself, not just the breading, contributing to a more delicious final product. Don’t skip this step – it’s a flavor booster!
5. Set Up Your Breading Station: This is where organization pays off! Get three shallow dishes or pie plates ready.
   • In the first dish, combine the ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika. Whisk well with a fork until thoroughly mixed. This is your “flour dredge.”
   • In the second dish, crack the 2 large eggs. Add the 1 tablespoon of milk or water, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. This is your “egg wash.”
   • In the third dish, combine the 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (if using), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything together really well with a fork to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the Panko. This is your “Panko dredge.”

   Having these stations set up in a line, from flour to egg to Panko, will make the breading process incredibly smooth and efficient. I like to call it my little assembly line for deliciousness!

Crafting the Perfect Crispy Coating for Your Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Now that our chicken is seasoned and our breading station is perfectly organized, it’s time for the magic of coating! This is where we create that irresistible, golden, and crispy exterior that makes Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders so beloved.

6. The Breading Technique – One Piece at a Time:

   This is my preferred method to keep one hand relatively clean and avoid a clumpy mess. I use one hand (my “wet hand”) for the egg wash and the other (my “dry hand”) for the flour and breadcrumbs.

   1. Flour First: Pick up one seasoned chicken tender with your “dry hand.” Place it into the first dish with the seasoned flour. Toss it around until it’s completely coated. Gently shake off any excess flour; we want a thin, even layer, not a thick cakey one.
   2. Into the Egg Wash: Transfer the flour-dredged chicken tender from your “dry hand” into the second dish with the egg wash. Use your “wet hand” to turn and coat the chicken entirely with the egg mixture. Let any excess egg drip off briefly.
   3. Panko Powerhouse: Using your “wet hand,” transfer the egg-coated chicken tender into the third dish with the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs. Now, switch to your “dry hand” to gently press the Panko firmly onto all sides of the chicken. Don’t be shy here! Really press the breadcrumbs on so they adhere well. The more Panko that sticks, the crispier your tenders will be. Ensure every part of the chicken is covered.
   4. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Once fully coated with Panko, carefully place the breaded chicken tender onto a prepared baking sheet. We’ll get to preparing the baking sheet next, but for now, just ensure you have a space to put them.
7. Repeat the Process: Continue this three-step breading process (flour, egg, Panko) for all remaining chicken tenders, placing each finished tender on the baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each tender on the baking sheet to allow for even air circulation, which is crucial for achieving that golden crispiness. If your baking sheet isn’t large enough, you might need to use two or bake in batches.

Baking Our Golden Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders to Perfection

Now for the main event – transforming our perfectly breaded chicken into glorious, crispy, and juicy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders. The baking process is straightforward but a few key steps will ensure success.

8. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for quick cooking and a crispy exterior.
9. Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. For extra crispiness, I highly recommend placing an oven-safe wire rack on top of the parchment paper. This elevates the tenders, allowing air to circulate all around them, which significantly contributes to a crispier crust. If you don’t have a wire rack, they’ll still be good, but the rack makes a noticeable difference.
10. Arrange the Tenders: Carefully place your breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet (or on the wire rack). Ensure they are in a single layer and are not touching each other. Crowding the pan will steam the chicken instead of baking it crisply.
11. Lightly Oil for Extra Crispness (Optional but Recommended): For that beautiful golden-brown color and an extra layer of crunch, lightly mist the tops of the chicken tenders with non-stick cooking spray or drizzle very sparingly with a tablespoon of olive oil. This helps the Panko toast up wonderfully in the oven.
12. Bake the Tenders: Place the baking sheet with the chicken tenders into your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes on the first side. The exact time can vary depending on the thickness of your tenders and your oven.
13. Flip and Continue Baking: After the initial baking time, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, gently flip each chicken tender over. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for another 8-12 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown, cooked through, and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer at their thickest part.
14. Check for Doneness and Crispness: The tenders should look beautifully golden and feel firm to the touch. If you want them even crispier, you can briefly switch your oven to the broiler setting for 1-2 minutes, keeping a very close eye on them to prevent burning. Broilers can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!

Serving and Storing Your Delicious Creation

You’ve done it! You’ve successfully created incredible Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders. Now for the best part – enjoying them!

15. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet or a clean cutting board for 3-5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful bites. It also helps the coating firm up a little more.
16. Serve Warm with Your Favorite Dips: These tenders are absolutely fantastic served warm, straight out of the oven! My family loves them with a variety of dipping sauces like homemade honey mustard, classic ranch dressing, tangy BBQ sauce, or even just good old ketchup. Don’t forget some fresh lemon wedges for a bright, acidic squeeze over the top – it really enhances the flavor!
17. Pair with Sides: These Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are wonderfully versatile. They pair perfectly with a side of crispy oven-baked fries, a fresh garden salad, steamed green beans, or even some creamy mac and cheese. They’re also excellent sliced up and added to wraps or salads for a lighter meal.
18. Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), allow the tenders to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
19. Reheating Leftovers: To best retain their crispiness, I recommend reheating leftover baked chicken tenders in a preheated oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. Pop them into an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, until heated through and crispy again. The microwave tends to make them soft, and we want to preserve that beautiful texture you worked so hard to achieve!

Enjoy your homemade masterpiece! These tenders are a healthier, equally delicious, and incredibly satisfying alternative to their fried counterparts, perfect for a family meal or a casual gathering. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it, my friends! After walking you through every single step, from selecting the best chicken to achieving that perfect golden crisp, I truly hope you’re as excited as I am about this incredible recipe. These aren’t just any chicken tenders; these are your very own Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders, and I promise you, they are an absolute game-changer in your kitchen. This recipe stands out because it delivers on all fronts: flavor, texture, and health, all wrapped up in an incredibly easy-to-follow process. Imagine a tender, perfectly seasoned piece of chicken, encased in a wonderfully crunchy, golden crust – that’s what you get, every single time, without the guilt and mess of deep-frying. It’s a testament to the fact that healthier eating does not mean sacrificing an ounce of taste or that satisfying crisp we all crave.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the superior results it yields. You’re not just making chicken tenders; you’re crafting a meal that brings joy and comfort, knowing exactly what wholesome ingredients have gone into every bite. Say goodbye to soggy, greasy takeout versions and welcome a lighter, more satisfying alternative that you control from start to finish. This method ensures that the chicken remains incredibly juicy on the inside while achieving an irresistible exterior crunch, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet impressive. It’s a dish that appeals to everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning palates, making it an invaluable addition to your culinary repertoire.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations to Elevate Your Meal

Now, let’s talk about how to serve these magnificent tenders. Of course, a classic trio of dipping sauces is always a winning combination: a tangy honey mustard, a smoky BBQ, and a creamy ranch dressing. But don’t feel limited to tradition! For a more adventurous palate, try a zesty sriracha mayo or a sweet chili sauce. For a complete and satisfying meal, pair your freshly baked tenders with a generous helping of crispy sweet potato fries, a vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette, or some fluffy mashed potatoes. They also make an absolutely amazing filling for wraps or sandwiches, providing a protein-packed and flavorful punch to your lunch. My personal favorite way to enjoy them is sliced up and served over a fresh Caesar salad, transforming a simple salad into a truly elevated and substantial meal. You could also cut them into bite-sized pieces and add them to pasta dishes or even as a topping for homemade pizzas.

Feeling a little adventurous and want to put your own spin on things? These tenders are incredibly versatile and welcome creative variations. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding a pinch more cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your breading mix for a delightful kick. For an herbaceous twist, finely chop some fresh rosemary or thyme and mix it into the breadcrumbs, lending a fragrant aroma and sophisticated flavor. If you’re looking for an even more pronounced crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs, which are renowned for their flaky texture. For those with dietary considerations, gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even almond flour can be fantastic alternatives, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dish. A secret tip for extra tenderness and flavor? A quick soak in buttermilk for about 30 minutes before breading can make an incredible difference, ensuring every bite is moist and succulent. You could also experiment with different seasoning blends in the breading – perhaps a touch of garlic powder and onion powder for an umami boost, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, savory crust.

Your Kitchen Awaits: Try These Tenders and Share Your Success!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give these incredible Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders a try this week. I promise you, once you experience the ease of preparation, the incredible flavor, and the sheer satisfaction of making them yourself, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought. Imagine the smiles around your dinner table, the delighted murmurs of ‘Mmm, these are amazing!’ – that’s the power of a truly great home-cooked meal made with love and fresh ingredients. Cooking should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and this recipe embodies just that. It’s a fantastic way to bond with family in the kitchen or simply treat yourself to a delicious and wholesome meal.

Once you’ve whipped up your batch of these crispy delights, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you try a new dipping sauce that became an instant hit? Did you discover a unique variation that you’re eager to share? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your culinary experiments in the comments section below. Your feedback and creativity not only inspire me but also our entire growing community of home cooks. Let’s continue to make delicious food together, celebrate the joy of cooking from scratch, and spread the word about how simple and satisfying it can be to create culinary masterpieces right in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy and juicy homemade baked chicken tenders, a healthier alternative to fried versions. Perfect for a family meal or quick snack, these tenders are seasoned to perfection and baked to a golden crunch.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
2 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, cut into strips
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray for coating

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat chicken strips thoroughly dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, whisk the 2 large eggs. In a separate shallow dish, combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
2. Step 2
   Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated and allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the Panko mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even and thick coating on all sides.
3. Step 3
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place an oven-safe wire rack on top if desired for extra crispiness. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the rack (or parchment paper), ensuring they are in a single layer and not touching. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with olive oil spray.
4. Step 4
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken tenders for 12-15 minutes, then carefully flip each tender. Continue baking for another 8-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
5. Step 5
   Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.