Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Easy Dinner Recipe

December 8, 2025April 26, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips

– 1 cup buttermilk

– 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Spices and Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Additional Ingredients

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Cooking spray

For this crispy baked chicken tenders recipe, you want to use fresh, high-quality chicken breast. Cutting it into strips helps them cook evenly and makes them easy to handle. Buttermilk is a key player here; it keeps the chicken juicy and adds flavor. Whole wheat breadcrumbs give a nice crunch and a healthy twist. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese! It adds richness and helps with browning.

The spices and seasonings are very important too. Garlic powder and onion powder bring great depth. Smoked paprika gives a lovely smokiness, while cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat. You can adjust the cayenne to fit your taste.

Finally, salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Cooking spray helps achieve that desired crispiness, making every bite satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven and line the baking sheet.

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This gives the chicken a nice crisp. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup later.

2. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk.

In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir it well. Add the chicken strips and coat them fully. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step makes the chicken tender and flavorful.

Coating the Chicken

1. Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan.

In another bowl, combine 1 cup of whole wheat breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix them well until combined. This mix gives the chicken a great crunch.

2. Dredge the chicken strips.

Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Let the extra buttermilk drip off. Now, take each strip and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help it stick. This creates a crispy crust when baked.

Baking Process

1. Arrange chicken on the baking sheet.

Place the coated chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out. This helps them bake evenly.

2. Baking time and temperature.

Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray. This adds extra crispiness. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

To get the crispiest chicken tenders, use cooking spray. This step is key. It helps the breadcrumbs brown nicely. Spray each tender lightly before baking. For oven settings, always preheat to 425°F (220°C). This high heat makes the outside crunchy. Avoid opening the oven door too often, as it lets heat escape.

Marinating Insights

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This helps flavor and keeps the meat juicy. You can even marinate for longer if you have time. If you don’t have buttermilk, try yogurt or milk with lemon juice. Both work well and add a nice tang.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your crispy chicken tenders with tasty dipping sauces. Honey mustard or ranch are perfect choices. For a fun twist, try barbecue sauce too. Garnish your platter with fresh parsley or thyme. This adds a pop of color and makes your dish look great.

Variations

Different Bread Crumb Options

You can switch up your bread crumbs for fun. Here are some ideas:

– Gluten-free breadcrumb alternatives: You can use crushed rice cereal or gluten-free panko. These work great for crispiness without the gluten.

– Panko vs. whole wheat: Panko gives a lighter crunch. Whole wheat adds nutty flavor. Try both to see what you like best.

Flavor Infusions

Let’s add some fun flavors to your chicken tenders. Here’s how:

– Adding herbs and spices: You can mix in parsley, thyme, or Italian herbs. A little rosemary can also bring a new twist.

– Other cheese options: Instead of Parmesan, try cheddar or mozzarella. These cheeses melt well and add a rich flavor.

Cooking Method Alternatives

You can change how you cook these tenders for different results:

– Air fryer instructions: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the tenders for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. They will turn out super crispy!

– Pan-frying options: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tenders for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. This gives a nice, crunchy crust.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storage

To keep your crispy baked chicken tenders fresh, store them in the fridge. Place the tenders in an airtight container. This helps to keep them moist and tasty. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure to use a container that fits well, so there is less air. This will help them stay fresh for up to four days.

Reheating Instructions

When you want to enjoy your chicken tenders again, the oven is the best way to reheat them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are hot and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tenders soggy. If you must use a microwave, try to use the crisping feature if your microwave has one.

Freezing Guidelines

To freeze your chicken tenders, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. This helps them keep their shape. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How long do Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders last?

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders can last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful. They also stay tender even when baked. Just cut them into similar-sized strips for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What should the internal temperature be for cooked chicken?

The internal temperature for cooked chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken tenders. If they are not at this temperature, return them to the oven until done. This step is important for both safety and taste.

This blog covered how to make crispy baked chicken tenders from start to finish. We discussed the main ingredients, the ideal baking methods, and tips for storage. Also, we explored variations you can try. Remember, using buttermilk makes your chicken juicy, while cooking spray adds crispiness. Feel free to experiment with flavors, breadcrumbs, or cooking styles. Enjoy your tasty tenders and don’t hesitate to share your own tips and trick