Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders! These little beauties are not only delicious but also a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken. I remember the first time I made them for my family; I was trying to sneak in a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, the crispy, golden exterior is just as satisfying as the fried version, and my kids devoured them! The best part? They’re super easy to whip up, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet tasty. I love serving them with a variety of dipping sauces, and honestly, everyone gets to customize their own plate. It’s a win-win for both taste and health! Once you try these, you’ll be hooked too!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders come to life! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I love using panko for extra crunch!)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten (this helps the breadcrumbs stick nicely)
- 1 teaspoon salt (a little goes a long way!)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or more if you love a kick)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (it adds a wonderful depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go before you start breading; it makes the process so much smoother and more fun!
How to Prepare Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders
Let’s dive into making these Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because you want that perfect golden crunch! While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It makes cleanup a breeze and helps the tenders crisp up nicely.
Now, it’s time to set up your breading station! Grab three bowls: one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and the last one for the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. This step is crucial for getting that delicious flavor all over your chicken!
Here’s where the magic happens. Take each chicken strip and dip it into the flour first, coating it evenly. Then, dunk it into the eggs, letting any excess drip off. Lastly, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s fully coated. It can get a bit messy, but I promise it’s worth it!
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not crowded—this helps them crisp up! Bake them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy every crispy bite!
Tips for Success
Want to take your Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders to the next level? Here are my top tips! For that extra crunch, spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking—trust me, it makes a world of difference! Feel free to play around with the spices in your breadcrumb mixture; try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some Italian herbs for a different twist. If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought seasoned breadcrumbs for an easy flavor boost. And remember, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; it’s the secret to achieving that glorious crispiness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthier alternative to fried chicken without sacrificing flavor.
- Deliciously crispy texture that everyone will adore.
- Customizable with your favorite spices and dipping sauces.
- Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd—everyone loves them!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition in these Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders! Each serving, which is about four tenders, packs a punch with approximately 250 calories. You’ll find about 8 grams of fat, including just 1 gram of saturated fat, which is great for a healthier option. Plus, they deliver a solid 20 grams of protein—perfect for keeping you satisfied! They also contain about 30 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber, making them a balanced choice for your meal. Just keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you even juicier tenders. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if they’re thicker.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven to regain that crispy texture!
Can I freeze the tenders?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked, breaded tenders. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
Oh, the options are endless! My favorites are honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and a zesty ranch. Get creative and find your perfect match!
Can I make these gluten-free?
You bet! Just swap out the breadcrumbs and flour for gluten-free alternatives, and you’ll have delicious tenders everyone can enjoy.
Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders: Irresistibly Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up your breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with spices.
- Dip each chicken strip in flour, then in eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can spray the tenders with cooking spray before baking.
- Try different spices in the breadcrumb mixture for varied flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Crispy Oven Chicken Tenders