Print

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 6 reviews

These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders, featuring a crunchy panko breadcrumb coating baked to golden perfection. Perfectly seasoned and tender on the inside, this recipe is quick to prepare and ideal for a satisfying family meal or snack.

Ingredients

Breading and Coating

  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Oil spray (for toasting and spraying before baking)

Batter

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard (or other mustard)
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Chicken

  • 500 g (1 lb) chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut lengthwise into 2/3″ / 1.5 cm thick slices)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C fan-forced to prepare for baking the chicken tenders evenly.
  2. Toast Panko Breadcrumbs: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a baking tray, spray lightly with oil using a vertical spray to avoid displacing the crumbs, then bake for 3 to 5 minutes until they become light golden and crisp. Transfer toasted panko to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Prepare Baking Tray: Place a wire rack on a baking tray to allow even air circulation underneath the tenders, promoting crispiness. This step is optional but recommended.
  4. Make Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, flour, salt, and black pepper until fully combined to form a smooth batter. This will coat the chicken and help the breadcrumbs adhere.
  5. Coat Chicken in Batter: Add the chicken tenders to the batter and toss thoroughly ensuring each piece is well coated.
  6. Crumb the Chicken: Using tongs, pick up each coated chicken piece and place into the bowl of toasted panko breadcrumbs. Then sprinkle additional breadcrumbs over the top surface and press gently so they stick well, creating a crispy crust.
  7. Arrange for Baking: Transfer the crumbed chicken tenders onto the prepared rack on the baking tray. Spray them lightly again with oil and optionally sprinkle a pinch of extra salt for flavor.
  8. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes for medium-sized tenders. Larger pieces may require up to 20 minutes. Avoid baking longer to prevent the chicken from drying out.
  9. Serve: Remove chicken tenders from oven and serve immediately. Pair with your favorite sauces such as honey mustard and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use oil spray vertically when toasting panko to prevent breadcrumbs from blowing away.
  • For serving, honey mustard sauce complements these tenders perfectly; see recipe notes or video for preparation.
  • Ensure chicken pieces are uniformly sized for even cooking and crispness.
  • Adjust seasoning and salt according to dietary needs.
  • Using a wire rack elevates tenders ensuring even baking and crisp texture on all sides.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/crispy-oven-baked-chicken-tenders-recipe-2/