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Ultimate Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

A stack of golden brown, crispy chicken tenders, one cut open to show the white meat inside.

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Make these incredibly crispy chicken tenders in your oven. This recipe delivers a golden, crunchy coating and juicy interior, making it a healthier, easy weeknight dinner that rivals takeout.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper, then coat generously with cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
  3. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and flour.
  4. In a third dish, lightly beat the egg.
  5. Remove one tenderloin at a time from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dip the tenderloin into the egg wash, then press firmly into the panko mixture until completely coated.
  6. Place the coated tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  7. Spray the tops of the coated tenders liberally with cooking spray to help them brown and crisp.
  8. Bake for 10 minutes, flip the tenders, and spray the other side with cooking spray.
  9. Bake for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces for a family favorite meal.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet before arranging the tenders.
  • If you prefer a ‘Crack Chicken’ flavor, add 1 tablespoon of dry ranch seasoning mix to the panko breadcrumb mixture.
  • This recipe works well for freezer meal preparation; freeze cooked or uncooked tenders on a sheet pan before transferring them to a freezer bag.

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