These baked chicken tenders are a family favorite for a reason! Juicy chicken breast tenders coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden brown perfection are the perfect easy dinner or snack. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders.
I love serving this with either honey mustard dressing or ranch dressing. Be sure to try my Chick Fil A copycat nuggets recipe too. Enjoy these crispy oven-baked chicken tenders with your favorite side dishes for a meal that's sure to please the whole family!
![Oven Baked Chicken Tenders](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Oven-Baked-Chicken-Wings-.jpg)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great weeknight meal.
- Healthier Alternative: Oven-baked, not fried, these tenders are lower in fat.
- Versatile: Perfect for serving with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard sauce, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
- Kid-Friendly: Picky eaters will love these crispy chicken tenders.
![Oven Baked Chicken Wings Recipe](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Oven-Baked-Chicken-Wings-Recipe.jpg)
![Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Oven-Baked-Chicken-Tenders-Ingredients.jpg)
Ingredients for homemade chicken tenders
- Eggs
- Bread crumbs
- Panko bread crumbs
- Seasoning salt
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Chicken breasts or chicken tenders
![Baked Chicken Tenders](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Baked-Chicken-Tenders.jpg)
How to make easy baked chicken tenders
In a small bowl, beat two eggs. Preheat oven to 450°.
In a second bowl, add the remaining ingredients, except for the chicken.
Cut chicken breasts into smaller pieces, about 1" by 2"
Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture.
Roll into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat.
Bake on a cookie sheet for 7 minutes.
Turn the tenders and bake another 7 minutes, or until the juices run clear.
Serve with mustard sauce or ranch dressing.
![How to make Baked Chicken Tenders](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/How-to-make-Baked-Chicken-Tenders.jpg)
![How to make Chicken Tenders](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/How-to-make-Baked-Chicken-Tenders-part-2.jpg)
Tips for the Best Results
- Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is preheated to 450°F for the best crispy exterior.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the chicken tenders a light and crunchy coating.
- Single Layer: Place chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet for even cooking.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
![Baked Chicken Tenders](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Baked-Chicken-Tenders-.jpg)
Substitutions and Variations
- Breadcrumbs: Use regular breadcrumbs, Panko breadcrumbs, or a mix of both for a varied texture.
- Seasoning: Add Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Mix in some grated parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Cooking Methods: Try making air fryer chicken tenders for an even crispier result.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce—BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a homemade garlic aioli.
FAQs About Baked Chicken Tenders
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips or use chicken tenderloins directly.
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.
Absolutely! Freeze cooked tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 400°F for about 15 minutes.
Ensure the chicken tenders are well coated in the breadcrumb mixture and bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate and keeps the bottoms from getting soggy.
Yes, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
More great chicken recipes
📖 Recipe
![Oven Baked Chicken Tenders](https://www.organizedisland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Oven-Baked-Chicken-Wings--300x300.jpg)
Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- ½ cup Panko crumbs
- t teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2-3 chicken breasts or 1 ½ lbs of chicken tenders.
Instructions
- In a small bowl beat two eggs. Preheat oven to 450°.
- In a second bowl, add the remaining ingredients except for the chicken.
- Cut chicken breasts into smaller pieces, about 1" by 2"
- Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture.
- Roll into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat.
- Bake on a cookie sheet for 7 minutes.
- Turn tenders and bake another 7 minutes or until juices run clear.
- Serve with mustard sauce or ranch dressing.
Nutrition
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Tamara
Cassidy makes homemade tenders - WHICH ARE SO GOOD - but I think he fries them. I'd love to try them baked instead. We'll never buy the frozen kind again, I tell ya!