Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

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Introduction
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are golden, crunchy, and loaded with flavor—without the guilt of frying! They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or kid-friendly meals. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Breading:

  • 1 cup (120 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Dipping Sauce Suggestions:

  • Honey mustard
  • Ranch dressing
  • Spicy sriracha mayo

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add chicken tenders to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for extra tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
  2. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  1. Remove chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
  2. Dredge each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

  1. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up.
  2. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Tips:

  • For extra crunch, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before using.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken, with all the crunch and none of the mess.

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