When it comes to a quick, tasty, and family-friendly dish, nothing beats a baked chicken tenders recipe. These tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. I love making this dish because it’s versatile and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to game day snacks. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken.
Choosing the Right Main Ingredient
Selecting the right chicken tenderloins is crucial for the perfect baked chicken tenders recipe. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken tenderloins with a pinkish hue and no unpleasant odor. Organic or free-range chicken tenders often provide the best flavor and texture.
Seasoning Your Chicken Tenders
Seasoning is key to making delicious baked chicken tenders. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can work wonders. But don’t stop there; feel free to get creative with herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a bit of heat with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Recommended Cooking Equipment and How to Use Effectively
To achieve perfectly baked chicken tenders, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s a list of recommended items and how to use them effectively:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking. Line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Wire Rack: Placing a wire rack on your baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the chicken tenders, making them extra crispy.
- Oil Spray: A light spray of oil on the chicken tenders helps achieve a golden, crispy coating. Opt for a high-heat oil spray like avocado or canola oil.
- Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for your wet and dry mixtures to keep the crumbing technique clean and organized.
- Tongs: Tongs make it easy to handle the chicken tenders without making a mess. They also help you avoid getting your hands dirty.
Comprehensive Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Baked Chicken Tenders
Baked chicken tenders recipe is one of my all-time favorites. These tenders are incredibly crispy on the outside, yet juicy and tender on the inside. They're perfect for any meal and easy to make. I love how versatile and family-friendly this dish is, making it a staple in my kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- Oil spray (avocado or canola)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
Prepare Breading Station:
- Bowl 1: Add flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and water.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Crumb the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Arrange on Wire Rack: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the wire rack. Lightly spray with oil spray to ensure they become golden and crispy.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Cool: Let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 350Total Fat: 15gCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes
Baked chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Mix honey and mustard for a tangy and sweet dip.
- Vegetable Sticks: Serve with fresh carrot, celery, and cucumber sticks for a crunchy, healthy side.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Bake some sweet potato fries for a delicious, wholesome accompaniment.
- Salad: A light, refreshing green salad can balance the crispy texture of the chicken tenders.
Cooking Tips
- Golden Breadcrumbs: Toast the breadcrumbs slightly in a pan before using them to enhance their flavor and color.
- Oil Spray: Ensure even coverage of oil spray to achieve that perfect crispy crust.
- Crumb Coating: Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken for better adherence and crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Place the chicken tenders with enough space between them to ensure even cooking.
- Skipping the Wire Rack: Using a wire rack allows air circulation, making the chicken tenders crispy all around.
- Insufficient Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Properly seasoned chicken tenders are much more flavorful.
Conclusion
There you have it, a foolproof baked chicken tenders recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner, a party snack, or a fun family meal, these crispy oven-baked chicken tenders are always a hit. Enjoy the golden chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce and sides. Remember, the key to perfect tenders lies in quality ingredients, proper seasoning, and effective use of cooking equipment. Happy cooking!
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.