Why the Baked Chicken Tenders Is a Great Chicken Dish
When it comes to quick and delicious meals, I can’t help but rave about baked chicken tenders. They’re not only easy to make, but they also deliver that satisfying crunch we all crave.
I love how versatile they are; you can serve them with a side salad, dip them in your favorite sauce, or even toss them in a wrap. Plus, they’re healthier than fried options, so I don’t have to feel guilty.
The aroma that fills my kitchen while they bake is irresistible, and I know my family appreciates a tasty, homemade dish that doesn’t take forever to prepare.
Ingredients of Baked Chicken Tenders
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dinner, having the right ingredients is key, and trust me, this crispy panko baked chicken tenders recipe has you covered. Gather these simple items, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dish that feels fancy but is totally easy to make.
Plus, the beauty of this recipe is that you probably already have many of these ingredients in your pantry, which means less running to the store and more time to enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Here’s what you’ll need for those crispy baked chicken tenders:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon garlic powder (depending on how garlicky you like it)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations when it comes to these ingredients. First off, chicken tenders are great because they cook quickly and stay juicy, but if you can’t find them, you can always cut up chicken breasts into strips.
And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some spices or herbs that you love. Maybe a pinch of paprika for a kick, or some Italian seasoning to really jazz things up.
The panko breadcrumbs provide that fabulous crunch, but if you’re in a pinch, regular breadcrumbs could work too—just don’t tell my panko-loving heart. Finally, don’t skimp on the parmesan; it adds a wonderful, cheesy flavor that makes these tenders oh-so-tasty.
Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—making these tenders!
How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making those crispy panko baked chicken tenders. First things first, preheat your oven to a sizzling 425°F. While that’s warming up, grab a baking sheet and line it with foil. Trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze. Now, give it a little spritz with non-stick spray. No one likes a sticky situation, right?
Next, we need to whip up that crunchy coating. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and a generous sprinkle of black pepper. Don’t forget to add in ¼ to ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, depending on how much you love that garlicky goodness. It’s like a little seasoning party in there!
In another bowl, crack 2 eggs and add 1 tablespoon of water. Whisk them together until they’re nicely blended.
Now, it’s time for the fun part—coating those chicken tenders. Take each piece of chicken (1 ½ lbs of it, to be precise) and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, roll it around in the panko mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. It’s almost like giving each tender a cozy little jacket for its baking adventure.
Place the coated tenders on the baking sheet, giving them a little space to breathe. Bake them in the oven for about 18 to 20 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through! You want both sides to get nice and crispy.
Oh, and maybe sneak a bite after they cool down a bit—just to verify they’re up to your standards, of course. Who can resist a little quality control? Enjoy those tender, crunchy bites; you’ve earned it.
Baked Chicken Tenders Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up those delicious crispy panko baked chicken tenders, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit.
You can easily swap the chicken tenders for chicken breasts or even turkey tenders if you prefer. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
Want extra flavor? Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick. You could also experiment with different cheeses, like feta or cheddar, to change the taste.
Finally, try adding some finely chopped herbs, like basil or cilantro, for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
What to Serve with Baked Chicken Tenders
If you’re wondering what to serve with your crispy panko baked chicken tenders, you’ve got plenty of delicious options to contemplate.
I love pairing them with a fresh garden salad, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or seasoned rice complement the tenders perfectly.
Don’t forget some roasted vegetables for a colorful plate! If you’re in the mood for a dip, a side of honey mustard or ranch dressing can elevate the meal.
And for a fun twist, try serving them in wraps with lettuce and tomatoes. Enjoy experimenting with these tasty sides!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your crispy panko baked chicken tenders, keep a few tips in mind to enhance your cooking experience.
First, make certain to use fresh panko breadcrumbs for the best crunch. I like to add a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick.
Don’t skip the flipping halfway through; it guarantees even crispness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for that crispy texture.
Finally, feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.
Enjoy your delicious tenders with your favorite dipping sauces!