These baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried versions, offering a crispy texture and delicious flavor. Made with simple ingredients, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces.
Deliciously Crispy Texture
The allure of crispy baked chicken tenders lies in their delightful crunch.
With a perfectly golden-brown exterior, these tenders provide a satisfying bite that contrasts beautifully with their tender, juicy interior.
The secret to achieving this texture is in the breading, which can be customized to suit personal preferences.
Using panko breadcrumbs can enhance the crunch factor, making each bite even more enjoyable.
The combination of seasonings adds depth to the flavor, ensuring that every piece is not only crispy but also packed with taste.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing these chicken tenders is straightforward and quick.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
The process begins with cutting the chicken breast into strips, which allows for even cooking and easy handling.
Next, the chicken is dipped in beaten eggs before being coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy layer.
Once coated, the tenders are arranged on a baking sheet, ready to be transformed in the oven.
Cooking Time and Techniques
Baking the chicken tenders at a high temperature ensures they cook through while developing a crispy exterior.
Typically, they take about 15-20 minutes to reach perfection.
Flipping them halfway through the cooking time promotes even browning, resulting in a uniform texture.
Using a light spray of cooking oil or a drizzle of olive oil can further enhance the crispiness.
This technique allows the tenders to bake beautifully without the need for frying, making them a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, these chicken tenders are best served warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Pairing them with a variety of dipping sauces can elevate the dining experience.
Classic choices like honey mustard or barbecue sauce complement the flavors perfectly.
For a more adventurous twist, consider serving them with spicy ranch or a tangy buffalo sauce.
The versatility of these tenders makes them suitable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to game day snacks.
Nutritional Benefits
These baked chicken tenders offer a nutritious alternative to their fried counterparts.
With approximately 250 calories per serving, they provide a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making them a satisfying meal option.
Each serving contains around 30 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
The use of lean chicken breast ensures that the dish remains low in fat while still being filling.
Creating a Rustic Presentation
The presentation of these chicken tenders can enhance the overall dining experience.
Arranging them neatly on a rustic wooden table adds an inviting touch, making the dish feel more homemade and comforting.
Using a small bowl for dipping sauce not only keeps the meal tidy but also allows for easy access to the sauces.
This thoughtful arrangement can make even a simple meal feel special and appealing to guests.
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
This recipe features tender chicken strips coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil for added crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g