Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

The search for the perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders ends here! This family-friendly recipe brings all the golden crunch you crave, without the need for deep frying. Tender, juicy chicken is soaked in buttermilk for the ultimate flavor boost, coated in a savory Parmesan-panko mix, and baked until gloriously crisp and golden. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner, a party platter, or kid-approved meal, these oven-baked tenders deliver every time, making them a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how each simple ingredient plays a starring role in crafting these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. From the tangy buttermilk marinade to the irresistible crunchy coating, every component makes a difference.

• Chicken tenders or chicken breasts: Chicken tenders are naturally juicy, but strips of chicken breast work perfectly too for homemade strips!
• Buttermilk: This tangy liquid not only adds flavor, but it tenderizes the chicken for maximum juiciness.
• Garlic powder: A must for savory depth — you’ll notice the difference.
• Paprika: Adds color and a gentle warmth to the chicken, for both flavor and looks.
• Salt: Absolutely essential to highlight every other flavor in the recipe.
• Black pepper: A pinch gives the tenders a subtle kick and balances the coating.
• Panko breadcrumbs: The secret to that signature crunch — thicker and crispier than plain breadcrumbs.
• Regular breadcrumbs: Help the coating stick and create an even golden color.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Savory, salty cheese makes these tenders extra irresistible.
• Olive oil or melted butter: Helps the coating brown and crisp up in the oven — choose olive oil for a lighter flavor or butter for richness.
• Optional: Chopped parsley: A fresh, bright finish if you want your platter to pop!

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken tenders and toss to coat every piece well. Let them soak up the flavors for at least 20 minutes (overnight is even better if you want unforgettable tenderness and flavor). This step makes sure each bite is juicy and loaded with taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Crunchy Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil or melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture looks and feels a little like wet sand — every crumb should be shiny and ready to stick. This combo gives the Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders their signature crunch and golden color.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Lift each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip away, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure all sides are covered — a little extra pressing helps the coating stick and creates that craveable texture. Lay each coated tender on a parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping them in a single layer for even baking.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into a preheated 425°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the coating is crisp and beautifully golden and the chicken reaches 165°F inside. If you love extra crunch, broil them for 1 to 2 minutes at the end — keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Step 5: Add a Fresh Finish

Once out of the oven, shower your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with fresh chopped parsley to add color and an herby finish. Serve them hot and listen for that first crunch — there’s nothing quite like it.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is always a winner, but don’t be afraid to get creative with a sprinkle of smoked paprika, lemon zest, or even a dusting of extra Parmesan. A few wedges of lemon on the side bring brightness and a gourmet touch to your platter of Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders.

Side Dishes

These tenders are amazingly versatile! Pair them with classic French fries or a crunchy slaw for picnic vibes, or go lighter with a big green salad. For a fun twist, serve them up with roasted veggies or sweet potato fries — and don’t skip the dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite barbecue.

Creative Ways to Present

Try skewering Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with toothpicks for a party platter, slicing them onto salads, or layering in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and aioli. They’re also fantastic chopped up for loaded bowls with grains and veggies. You’ll never run out of ways to show these off!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They stay crisp best when stored without stacking too tightly, and dry paper towels between layers can help absorb extra moisture.

Freezing

Once baked and cooled, you can freeze these tenders for quick meals anytime. Spread them on a tray to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months and reheat beautifully straight from frozen.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until hot and crispy again. Microwaving works in a pinch, but won’t deliver that signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice your chicken breasts into uniform strips for even cooking. The process and timing for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders remain the same.

Is it okay to skip the buttermilk?

Buttermilk provides tang and tenderness, but in a pinch, regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar will do the trick. The flavor and texture might be slightly different, but your tenders will still be delicious.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap both types of breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free varieties, and check that your Parmesan is gluten-free. The results are every bit as tasty and crispy.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Look for a golden color and check that the internal temperature of the thickest tender is at least 165°F. The juices should run clear and there should be no pink inside.

What dipping sauces go best with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?

Classic ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce are crowd-pleasers, but feel free to try buffalo sauce, sriracha mayo, or even a sweet chili dip for a flavor adventure.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for the best homemade Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. They’re easy, reliable, and absolutely loaded with crunch and flavor. Give them a try and watch them disappear — there’s just something unbeatable about that golden bite!

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