Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders: Tender pieces of chicken that are perfect for baking.

Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy coating for the chicken.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the coating.

Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a hint of garlic.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a bit of color.

Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the flavor.

Eggs: Helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.

To achieve an extra crispy coating on your chicken tenders, try double-dipping them. First, dip the chicken in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the process by dipping the coated chicken back into the eggs and then into the breadcrumbs again. This double layer will give you a thicker, crunchier crust.

• chicken tenders - Substitute with turkey breast strips: Turkey breast strips have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative for chicken tenders.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunchy texture and can be a gluten-free option if needed.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier, offering a different but equally delicious texture.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor, making it a suitable alternative.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a good vegan alternative.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor profile that can enhance the dish.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor that can enhance the overall taste.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a bit of heat and complexity, making it a good alternative.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can reduce the need for additional salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the peppery taste without altering the color of the dish.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and adds a slight tangy flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can act as a binding agent and adds moisture and tanginess to the dish.

• Allow the baked chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the chicken tenders in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To freeze, arrange the cooled chicken tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This step ensures they don't stick together.
• Once frozen, transfer the chicken tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and the coating is crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker reheating option.
• For an extra burst of flavor, consider brushing the chicken tenders with a bit of olive oil or melted butter before reheating. This will help to revive their crispy texture.
• Serve the reheated chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover baked chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through and the coating is 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. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.

• 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. Note that this method may not keep the coating as crispy.

• 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 the coating is crispy. This method adds a bit of extra flavor and crispiness.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the coating is crispy. This method is convenient for small batches.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken tenders at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Baking sheet: A flat surface to place the chicken tenders on while they bake.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until they are well combined.

• Tongs: Handy for dipping the chicken tenders into the beaten eggs and then into the breadcrumb mixture.

• Knife: If needed, to trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken tenders.

• Cutting board: A safe surface to use the knife on when preparing the chicken tenders.

• Cooling rack: Optional, but useful for placing the chicken tenders on after baking to cool slightly before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a baking rack: Place the chicken tenders on a baking rack over the sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Double the batch: Make extra chicken tenders and freeze them for a quick meal later.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the chicken tenders to save time.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper to make cleanup faster and easier.