Craving something crispy and delicious?

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders! Picture perfectly golden strips of chicken, crispy on the outside yet juicy on the inside—what’s not to love? These tenders are not just easy to whip up, but they’re also a healthier take on the classic fried version. Plus, you only need a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup. Seriously, who could resist?

Why make this recipe

Why should you trot into the kitchen to make these tenders? Let’s break it down:

Family-approved: Everyone from picky eaters to foodies will love them. They’re like the universal language of “yummy.”
Easy cleanup: Say goodbye to messy frying stations. You just need one baking sheet, which means less scrubbing later!
Budget-friendly: No need to splurge on takeout when you can make these tasty bites at home.

Who hasn’t secretly wished for takeout but wanted to save a few bucks? 😂

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

1 pound chicken breast strips
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these fuss-free steps to crispy goodness:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken strip first in flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Lightly spray or drizzle them with olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders (Overview)

Making these tenders is as easy as pie! Start by preheating your oven and preparing your stations. The three-bowl technique is foolproof; get those chicken strips coated and ready for their oven debut. Pro tip? Make sure your breadcrumbs are well-seasoned—they’re the star of the show! Bake them until they’re golden and revel in the glorious aroma wafting through your kitchen.

How to serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

It’s time to get creative! Serve these beauties with:

Colorful dipping sauces—think zesty ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo!
A crunchy side salad for a fresh contrast.
Sweet potato fries for a delightful twist.

The crunch as you bite into them is heavenly, and you’ll be greeted by the warm, aromatic flavors that will have your taste buds dancing!

How to store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Leftover chicken tenders? No problem! Store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just place them in an airtight container. Want to stash some for later? Freeze them for up to 3 months. When it’s time to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, and they’ll be almost as good as new!

Tips to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Here are a few insider tricks for making these tenders a breeze:

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch—trust me, it makes a difference!
Experiment with spices: Add some Italian seasoning or cayenne for a kick!
If you’re in a hurry, skip the breading and just season the chicken before baking—it’s still delicious!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Spice things up by swapping the chicken for tofu for a vegan version, or add your favorite cheese into the breadcrumb mix for an indulgent twist. The options are endless!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken strips?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them first and adjust your baking time as needed.

What can I pair these with for a full meal?
Try serving with steamed veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete comfort food experience!

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pre-bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking for a convenient meal anytime.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!