Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Printable version)

Oven-baked chicken tenders with a crunchy coating and juicy inside—perfect for weeknight comfort meals.

# Ingredient list:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1 cup cornflakes, crushed
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Dredging

08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 2 tablespoons milk

→ For the Pan

10 - Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

# Step-by-step guide:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
02 - In a shallow bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly blended.
03 - In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk until fully combined.
04 - Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to ensure even coating.
05 - Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
06 - Place coated chicken strips evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil for a crispier exterior.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through baking, until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Allow cooked chicken tenders to rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Cooks up in just over thirty minutes from start to plate
  • Baked not fried for a lighter, less greasy finish
  • Crunchy coating thanks to panko and cornflakes delivers unbeatable texture
  • Customizable with spices or gluten free substitutions for everyone at the table
02 -
  • Kid friendly and crowd pleasing every time
  • High in protein to keep you full and satisfied
  • Freezes beautifully once baked for make ahead meals
  • Easy to double for party platters or group gatherings
03 -
  • Patience pays off when breading Press the crumbs gently into the chicken so every angle gets maximum crunch
  • If you like extra spice sprinkle in cayenne with the breadcrumb mixture Use a wire rack over your baking sheet if you want all around crispness
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