Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders: A Simple Recipe for Juicy Perfection
Are you craving those crispy, juicy chicken tenders but want a healthier alternative to deep frying? Look no further! This recipe delivers perfectly cooked, oven-baked chicken tenders with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior, without the excess oil. Get ready to ditch the fryer and embrace this easy, delicious method.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch thick strips for optimal cooking and even browning. Choosing high-quality chicken will significantly impact the flavor of your tenders.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base for our crispy coating. You can experiment with different types of flour for varied textures.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a touch of smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: A classic flavor enhancer that complements chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Another staple that brings depth to the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the chicken's natural taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a subtle kick.
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk: Acts as a binder, ensuring the coating adheres perfectly. Buttermilk adds a tangy twist!
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Provides the crunch! Panko breadcrumbs are a great option for extra crispiness.
- Cooking spray: To prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Crispy Chicken Tenders:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into strips, approximately 1-inch thick and 3-4 inches long. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
- Season the chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss gently to coat them evenly.
Create the Crispy Coating:
- Prepare the milk/buttermilk: In a separate shallow dish, pour the milk or buttermilk.
- Dip and coat: Dip each flour-coated chicken tender into the milk/buttermilk, ensuring it's fully submerged. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere firmly.
Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking and browning.
- Spray with cooking spray: Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This helps achieve that extra crispy texture.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions:
These oven-baked chicken tenders are incredibly versatile! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo. They also make a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of crisping it.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create an extra-crispy crust.
- Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy oven-baked chicken tenders! They're perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed this recipe!
