Homemade Chicken Tenders

These homemade chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside. They are a wholesome, kid-friendly favorite that avoids the preservatives found in store-bought versions.

Homemade Chicken Tenders
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 12 minutes
  • Total time: 22 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko, Parmesan, and seasonings.
  3. Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
  4. Dip into the eggs, letting excess drip off.
  5. Press the chicken into the panko mixture until evenly coated.
  6. Place on the baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
  7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Tips

  • Use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to get the bottoms crispy too.
  • Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure a good crust.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Ensure the chicken is very dry before dredging in flour.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.