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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders deliver a perfect balance of crunch and juicy tenderness with a flavorful panko coating and a tangy marinade, baked to golden perfection for a healthier, easy-to-make meal.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken, Easy, Healthy, Oven Baked, Panko, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or mini chicken fillets, or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into ¾-inch strips (about 12 strips total)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Optionally place a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation underneath the chicken tenders.
  • In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and all-purpose flour until smooth and fully combined.
  • Dip each chicken tender strip into the wet mixture, fully coating it. Allow excess to drip off, then dredge it in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to form a crust. Place coated tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
  • Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes after baking to lock in the juices. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Wire Rack
  • Shallow Dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Notes

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto chicken to keep coating intact. Use a wire rack for crispier tenders. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Let tenders rest after baking. Check internal temperature to ensure doneness. Variations include adding cayenne for spice, using herbs, adding Parmesan cheese, gluten-free options, buttermilk marinade, or air fryer cooking. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to keep crispiness.