Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. These amazing sticks of chicken are marinated to perfection, coated in a crunchy, flavorful crust, and baked to achieve that crispy texture without the heavy oils. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they are ideal for family dinners, game day snacks, or a quick and easy meal.
The experience of biting into these crispy tenders is nothing short of heavenly. Unlike their fried counterparts, these baked chicken tenders deliver the same satisfying crunch while being significantly lighter and less greasy. This makes them perfect for those looking for a delicious yet healthier option. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you will have an irresistible dish that will surely leave your taste buds wanting more.
If you’re ready to transform your chicken dinner game, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about preparing crispy homemade baked chicken tenders. We’ll delve into why this recipe is a must-try, the preparation and cooking times, the ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions, and how to serve these tasty tenders to your family and friends. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders bring together a unique combination of flavors and textures. Here are some compelling reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
1. Healthier Option – Cooking these tenders in the oven reduces calories and fat compared to frying.
2. Kid-Friendly – Children adore the crispy coating and tender chicken. You can even get them involved in the preparation!
3. Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can make these tenders successfully.
4. Flavorful Marinade – The marinade infuses the chicken with delicious flavors, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
5. Perfect for Any Meal – Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a party snack, these tenders fit the bill.
6. Versatility – You can serve these tenders in various ways, from salads to sandwiches, or as a main dish.
Each of these factors contributes to why crispy homemade baked chicken tenders should be a staple recipe in your kitchen!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Cooking crispy homemade baked chicken tenders is an efficient task that won’t take up too much of your day. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes
– Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended for more flavor)
– Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
This quick preparation and cooking process makes this recipe an excellent choice for busy evenings or when you need a quick meal!

Ingredients

– 1 pound chicken tenders (about 12-15 tenders)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating crispy homemade baked chicken tenders is simple if you follow these outlined steps:
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders to this marinade, ensuring they are coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
3. Prepare the Breading Stations:
– In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
– In a second bowl, beat the egg.
– In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
4. Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each tender in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even baking.
6. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This helps them achieve that coveted crispy texture.
7. Bake: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. For extra crispiness, flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time.
8. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. This will help keep them juicy.

How to Serve

To elevate your meal with crispy homemade baked chicken tenders, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or sriracha mayo for a flavorful twist.

2. Accompaniment Options: Serve the tenders alongside a fresh salad, coleslaw, or seasoned fries for a complete meal.
3. Creative Serving Ideas: Slice the chicken tenders and use them as a protein topping for salads, toss them in wraps, or serve them in a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
4. Presentation Matters: Arrange the chicken tenders attractively on a platter. Add some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika to enhance the visual appeal.
By thoughtfully preparing and presenting your crispy homemade baked chicken tenders, you can create an enticing dish that will impress anyone at your table!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Chicken: For the best results, use fresh chicken tenders rather than frozen. The texture and flavor will be superior.
– Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. Baked chicken tenders make excellent leftovers!
– Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor kick.
– Serve Immediately: For optimal crispiness, serve the chicken tenders right after baking.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to switch up the traditional recipe! Here are a few tasty variations to consider:
1. Asian-Inspired Tenders: Add soy sauce and ginger to the marinade, and coat with sesame seeds along with the breadcrumbs.
2. Spicy Chicken Tenders: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breading for a spicy kick.
3. Herb-Infused Tenders: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful twist.
4. Cheesy Chicken Tenders: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor boost.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze cooked tenders for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Special Equipment

To make your cooking experience smoother, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment:
– Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for even cooking.
– Mixing Bowls: Have several bowls ready for marinating and breading.
– Meat Thermometer: This will help ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders. Make sure to adjust cooking time as necessary.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
How do I achieve an extra crispy texture?
For an even crispier finish, broil the chicken tenders for the last minute of cooking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I prepare the tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate and bread the chicken in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

Conclusion

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders offer a delectable blend of taste and texture without the guilt of frying. This recipe is not just about health; it’s about flavor and satisfaction. Whether served as a meal or party snack, these tenders are sure to impress. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself craving them again and again!