Dinner

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Name: Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Cooking spray

Byrami Hayes March 25, 2026March 25, 2026

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Introduction

Crispy oven baked chicken tenders are a healthier twist on a classic favorite, delivering that satisfying crunch without the deep frying. This recipe is simple and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack.

Four pieces of golden brown crispy chicken tenders coated in a crunchy crumb mix are arranged on white parchment paper inside a round white plate. The chicken has a rough texture with a sprinkling of fresh green herbs on top. To the right of the plate, a white bowl filled with creamy white dipping sauce topped with cracked black pepper is partly visible. A small wedge of yellow lemon sits near the bowl on the white marbled surface background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup breadcrumbs, panko or regular
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare your breading stations: place the flour in the first bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together in a second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
Step 3: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Press the chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly on all sides.
Step 5: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to encourage crispiness.
Step 6: Bake for 18-20 minutes, turning the tenders once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture if you like a little heat.
Try dipping the tenders in buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier flavor and more tender texture.
Make sure to spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray to help the breading crisp up in the oven.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.