If you crave golden, crunchy, addictively delicious chicken without the fuss of deep frying, these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are about to become your new go-to. They deliver everything you want from classic fried tenders—juicy meat, ultra-crisp coating, and irresistible flavor—but are so much lighter and perfect for easy family dinners or game day snacking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection—No Deep Frying: Skip the mess and calories of hot oil—these chicken tenders come out crackling and golden thanks to panko and a high-heat blast in the oven.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Everyday pantry staples blend with just a touch of dijon for a punchy, savory batter that clings to every bite.
- Kid and Grown-Up Approved: Both picky eaters and foodies can’t resist the juicy inside and irresistible crunch—these are a hit for family dinners or crowd-pleasing appetizers.
- Customizable and Make-Ahead Friendly: Want to bake ahead or try a new flavor twist? This recipe adapts easily for busy schedules and creative cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic behind Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders is the way a handful of kitchen staples turn into something so extra-special. Each ingredient lends its own personality—crunch, creaminess, a touch of zing, and savory satisfaction you’ll crave again and again.
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1 1/2 cups): Extra-large, airy Japanese breadcrumbs create the ultimate crunch—way crispier than standard breadcrumbs!
- Egg (1): Helps the batter cling to the chicken and locks in moisture for a juicy bite.
- Mayonnaise (1 tbsp): Adds a creamy richness and helps the coating stick even better.
- Dijon Mustard (1 1/2 tbsp): Brings subtle tang and a layer of savory depth—use your favorite mustard if you don’t have dijon.
- Flour (2 tbsp): Gives body to the batter so it doesn’t just slide off.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) & Black Pepper: Seasoning is everything! Layers the batter with flavor so every bite sings.
- Chicken Tenderloins (500 g/1 lb): Naturally tender, but you can also slice boneless chicken breasts into strips for perfect tenders.
- Oil Spray: A quick mist before and after gives an irresistible golden finish without added heaviness.
Variations
Don’t hesitate to make these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders your own—the recipe is designed for easy tweaks to suit any mood or dietary needs. Experiment with flavors or swap out ingredients for something you love, and discover your perfect tender!
- Spicy Kick: Mix smoked paprika, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce into the batter for an extra-fiery crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free panko and your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour—the results are just as crispy and satisfying.
- Cheesy Crunch: Add 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan to the panko for a rich, cheesy edge that’s totally crave-worthy.
- Herb-Lover’s Dream: Stir fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or dill right into the breadcrumbs for gorgeous color and an herby aroma.
How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C/390°F (or 180°C for a fan-forced oven). Spread your panko breadcrumbs in an even layer on a baking tray, then spritz generously with oil spray. Pop the tray in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes—keep a watchful eye! You want the panko to turn lightly golden but not brown, giving the final tenders that signature crunch.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Batter
While the crumbs are toasting, place a rack on another baking tray (totally optional, but it helps crisp the bottom of your tenders). In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, flour, salt, and some freshly cracked black pepper. Toss in your chicken strips and make sure every piece is thoroughly coated—this flavorful batter helps everything stick and kicks up the flavor.
Step 3: Crumb the Chicken Tenders
Grab a pair of tongs and start the fun part: Take each sticky chicken strip and lay it in your bowl of golden panko. Scoop some crumbs over the top, then press gently to make sure the panko is sticking to every surface. Set each coated tender onto your prepared baking tray and repeat until all the chicken is snug under a crispy blanket.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Give the tops of your chicken tenders another quick mist of oil spray and a pinch of salt, if you like a little extra. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes (or up to 20 if your pieces are particularly large). The coating will turn beautifully golden and shatteringly crisp, while the chicken inside stays wonderfully juicy. Serve your Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders immediately for maximum crunch!
Pro Tips for Making Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- Toasty Breadcrumb Secret: Toast your panko before breading—this guarantees a deep golden color and that signature loud, crunch when you bite in.
- Hands-Free Breading: Use tongs and the “sprinkle and press” method to keep your hands crumb-free and your coating beautiful and even.
- Don’t Overbake! Pull your tenders out as soon as they’re golden and cooked through—overbaking dries out the chicken and dulls that fabulous crispiness.
- Rack It Up: Baking on a rack lets hot air circulate, so your Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders crisp up on all sides.
How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or dill for a splash of color and garden-fresh flavor. A squeeze of lemon over the top also adds a burst of brightness that pairs beautifully with the rich, golden coating.
Side Dishes
Serve your chicken tenders with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, a crisp garden salad, or a creamy slaw. Don’t forget a dipping sauce or two—honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy mayo will turn your platter into a party!
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders onto a rustic wooden board for a snackable centerpiece, tuck them into wraps or sliced baguettes for fun sandwiches, or serve them in mini baskets for kids’ parties and casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover tenders cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep nicely in the fridge for up to 3 days and are fantastic in salads or as a quick protein-packed snack.
Freezing
While freezing raw crumbed tenders isn’t ideal (the breadcrumb coating tends to go soggy), you can absolutely freeze cooked Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders. Lay them out on a tray until firm, then move to a freezer bag for up to two months. Reheat straight from frozen for best results!
Reheating
The best way to revive that crave-worthy crunch is to reheat the tenders in a hot oven (200°C/390°F) for just 3–5 minutes. Avoid the microwave unless you’re short on time, as it softens the coating.
FAQs
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Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
You can use regular breadcrumbs in a pinch, but panko really is the secret behind that unmatched crunch. If you do swap, your tenders will still be tasty but a bit less crispy.
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Can I prep these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders in advance?
Yes! You can prep the batter and coat the chicken up to 24 hours ahead. For the crunchiest coating, crumb them right before baking—though crumbed tenders will also keep in the fridge for up to a day.
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Do I need to flip the tenders halfway through baking?
Not if you use a rack! The hot air circulates around the chicken for even crisping. If you’re baking directly on a tray, flipping halfway will help both sides brown up nicely.
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Can I make these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders dairy-free?
Absolutely—just swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo or plain dairy-free yogurt. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free, so you can enjoy crunchy chicken no matter your preferences!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal the whole family will rave about, these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are just the ticket. Give them a try, and let that first crunchy bite win you over—you may never go back to deep-fried again!
Print
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 people 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are the ultimate homemade alternative to fast-food chicken nuggets. With a perfectly seasoned crunchy coating and juicy chicken inside, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Breadcrumb
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Oil spray
Batter
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tbsp dijon mustard (or other mustard)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper
Chicken
- 500 g/1 lb chicken tenderloins (or breast cut into 2/3″ / 1.5cm thick slices, lengthwise)
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 200°C/390°F (180° fan-forced).
- Toast panko: Spread panko on a baking tray, spray with oil, then bake for 3 to 5 minutes until light golden. Transfer to bowl.
- Prepare chicken: Place a rack on a baking tray. Dredge chicken in batter mixture.
- Crumbing: Coat chicken with breadcrumbs by pressing them onto the surface. Transfer to baking tray.
- Bake: Spray chicken with oil, sprinkle salt, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve with sauce of choice and parsley.
Notes
- Panko breadcrumbs create a superior crunch compared to standard breadcrumbs.
- For Honey Mustard Sauce, mix mayonnaise, dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Make ahead by toasting breadcrumbs and crumbing chicken before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 248g
- Calories: 416 cal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 973mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 163mg
