Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Healthy, Crunchy & Family-Approved)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: ~375 kcal per serving

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Introduction

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are one of those recipes that check every box: fast, comforting, healthier than fried versions, and universally loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, prepping lunches ahead of time, or simply craving something crunchy and satisfying, these homemade chicken tenders deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

Unlike deep-fried chicken tenders that rely on heavy oil and can feel greasy or overly rich, these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders use the oven to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the chicken inside tender and juicy. Thanks to a seasoned breadcrumb coating and high-heat baking, you get that irresistible crunch without sacrificing nutrition or freshness.

Another reason this recipe stands out is its flexibility. You can keep it classic, spice it up, make it kid-friendly, or customize it for different dietary needs. Pair the tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, add them to salads or wraps, or serve them alongside roasted vegetables or fries for a complete meal.

If you’ve ever struggled with baked chicken that turns out soggy or bland, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right breadcrumbs to baking techniques that guarantee crispiness every time. Once you master these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, they’ll quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

There are countless chicken tender recipes online, but this one stands out for several key reasons.

First, these tenders are genuinely crispy without frying. Using panko breadcrumbs, a light coating of oil spray, and proper airflow in the oven ensures a crunchy texture that rivals restaurant versions.

Second, they’re healthier without feeling like a compromise. Baking instead of frying significantly reduces excess fat while still delivering satisfying flavor and texture. You can enjoy them guilt-free, even on busy weeknights.

Third, this recipe is incredibly easy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes from start to finish. No complicated marinades or special equipment required.

Fourth, Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are extremely versatile. Serve them as a main dish, slice them for salads, tuck them into wraps, or pack them for lunch. They reheat well and can be adapted for different flavor profiles.

Finally, they’re family-friendly. Kids love the crunch and mild seasoning, while adults appreciate the homemade quality and customizable spice level. Everyone wins.

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Ingredients + Tips

Main Ingredients

Chicken
Use either chicken breasts or pre-cut chicken tenders. Chicken breasts are usually more affordable and easy to slice into strips, while tenders save time. Aim for evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.

Eggs
Eggs act as the binding agent that helps the breadcrumbs stick. Make sure they’re well beaten for even coating.

Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs are strongly recommended for the crispiest texture. Their larger, flakier structure creates more crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, they’ll still work, but the texture will be slightly finer.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional)
Adding grated Parmesan boosts flavor and adds another layer of crispiness. It’s optional, but highly recommended if you want extra savory depth.

Seasonings
Garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper create a balanced, classic flavor profile. You can easily adjust these to suit your taste.

Olive Oil Spray
A light spray of oil helps the coating brown and crisp in the oven without making the tenders greasy.

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Ingredient Tips for Best Results

Use dry chicken strips. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from crisping properly.

Season every layer. Lightly seasoning the chicken itself, not just the breadcrumbs, ensures flavor in every bite.

Don’t skip the oil spray. Even a small amount of oil makes a big difference in achieving a golden, crunchy crust.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them lengthwise into strips about 1 inch wide. Try to keep them uniform in size to ensure even cooking. If you’re using chicken tenders, this step is already done for you.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and set aside.

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2. Prepare the Breading Stations

Set up two shallow bowls.

In the first bowl, beat the eggs until smooth and fully combined.

In the second bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.

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3. Season the Chicken

Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper. This step ensures the chicken itself is flavorful, not just the coating.

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4. Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off.

Next, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides. Gently press the crumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere.

For extra crispy baked chicken tenders, repeat the process: dip the breaded chicken back into the egg and then into the breadcrumb mixture again for a double coating.

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5. Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. For best results, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, helping it crisp evenly on all sides.

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6. Bake the Chicken Tenders

Arrange the chicken tenders on the wire rack or baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents crisping.

Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through if you’re not using a wire rack. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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7. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the coating set and keeps the chicken juicy.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.

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Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders

If ultimate crunch is your goal, these tips make a noticeable difference.

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs whenever possible.

Bake on a wire rack so hot air can circulate fully around the chicken.

Avoid overcrowding the pan. Space is essential for browning.

Double coat the chicken for a thicker, crunchier crust.

Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.

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Flavor Variations

One of the best things about Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders is how easy they are to customize.

Spicy Chicken Tenders
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

Italian-Style Chicken Tenders
Add Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and extra Parmesan cheese.

Smoky Chicken Tenders
Use smoked paprika and a pinch of cumin for a deeper, smoky flavor.

Kid-Friendly Version
Skip strong spices and keep the seasoning mild with just salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder.

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Serving Suggestions

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders can be served in countless ways.

Serve them with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or baked fries.

Slice them and add to salads for extra protein and crunch.

Use them in wraps or sandwiches with lettuce, tomatoes, and sauce.

Pair them with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, buffalo sauce, or ketchup.

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Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for 4–5 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 375 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 2 g

These values may vary depending on portion size and exact ingredients used.

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Final Thoughts

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or unhealthy. With just a handful of pantry staples and a hot oven, you can create a meal that’s crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and endlessly versatile.

This recipe is especially valuable for busy households. It comes together quickly, uses affordable ingredients, and appeals to picky eaters and adventurous food lovers alike. Whether you’re making dinner for your family, prepping meals for the week, or serving guests, these chicken tenders fit seamlessly into almost any occasion.

What truly sets these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders apart is their balance. They deliver the satisfying crunch people crave from fried chicken while keeping things lighter and fresher. By baking instead of frying, you retain control over the ingredients, seasoning, and texture—resulting in a dish that feels homemade in the best possible way.