Oh boy, let me tell you about my all-time favorite guilty pleasure—crispy baked chicken tenders! I remember the first time I made these, it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I was in the mood for something comforting. I stumbled upon this recipe, and after just one bite, I was hooked! What I love about these chicken tenders is how they strike the perfect balance between crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, all while being baked instead of fried. It’s like a hug in a food form!
Whenever I whip up a batch, it brings back memories of my childhood when my family would gather around the dinner table sharing stories and enjoying home-cooked meals. These chicken tenders are perfect for everything: lunch, dinner, or even a midnight snack when you’re feeling a little peckish. Grab your aprons, and let’s get crispy!
What’s in Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Let’s break down what you’ll need for these delicious tenders, shall we?
Chicken Tenderloins: The star of our show! Tenderloins are the perfect cut for this recipe—juicy and easy to coat.
Flour: This serves as the foundation of our coating. I prefer all-purpose flour, but you could use gluten-free flour if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Eggs: These act as the adhesive. They help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken for that crispy crunch.
Breadcrumbs: I like using panko breadcrumbs; they give a delightful crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can’t compete with. You could also use seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor kick.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this cheesy goodness adds a savory depth. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives the tenders a nice depth and color. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip this or use regular paprika.
Salt and Pepper: Simply essential for bringing all the flavors together!
Is Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects. Even though these are baked and not fried, they can still be a bit indulgent due to the breadcrumbs and cheese. But hey, everything in moderation, right?
Chicken Tenderloins: Packed with protein and low in fat, these are an excellent lean source of energy. Perfect for growing kids or anyone chasing a busy life!
Parmesan Cheese: While it adds flavor, keep in mind it also adds some calories. However, it’s a good source of calcium and other nutrients, so a little won’t hurt.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for whole grain varieties if you’re looking for a slightly healthier take, as they offer more fiber.
As with any treat, just keep an eye on portion sizes, and don’t worry too much; everything is alright occasionally!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb Chicken Tenderloins (serves 4)
– ½ cup All-purpose Flour
– 2 large Eggs
– 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
– ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
– 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
– Salt and Pepper to taste
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Ready? Let’s get cooking!
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Set up a coating station with three shallow bowls—one for flour, one for eggs, and the last for breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken tender in flour first, shaking off any excess.
4. Next, dip it into the eggs, letting the excess drip off.
5. Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
6. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. I like to spray a little cooking spray on top for that extra crispiness!
7. Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Enjoy them hot and crispy!
Bite-Sized Bliss: Tips and Variations!
– **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ, or even a spicy sriracha mayo!
– **Herb It Up:** Feel free to add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
– **Make It a Meal:** Serve these tenders on a bed of fresh greens or alongside roasted veggies for a delightful meal.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great way to make your kitchen smell amazing! Once you’ve made these crispy baked chicken tenders, let me know how they turned out. I’d love to hear your stories and tweaks! Happy cooking!
