Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Printable)

Golden chicken tenders baked with crispy breading. Juicy inside, crunchy outside, easy for family meals.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1 cup cornflakes, crushed
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Dredging

08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 2 tablespoons milk

→ For the Pan

10 - Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

# How to Make:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or coat lightly with nonstick spray.
02 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk together until smooth.
04 - Pat chicken strips dry using paper towels.
05 - Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat fully in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
06 - Place breaded chicken on the prepared sheet. Spray or drizzle lightly with olive oil for optimal crispiness.
07 - Bake 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
08 - Allow chicken to rest 2–3 minutes before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Crispy coating without deep-frying
  • Healthier and less mess than traditional fried tenders
  • Pantry staples make prep a breeze
  • Customizable to fit your spice and crunch preferences
  • Freezer friendly for make-ahead meals
02 -
  • High in lean protein for a filling main
  • Kid approved and picky-eater friendly
  • Can be made ahead or frozen for easy meal prep
03 -
  • Always dry your chicken thoroughly so the breading sticks evenly and does not steam in the oven
  • Crush your cornflakes only slightly for bigger crunchy bites
  • Spray or drizzle oil before baking to get that magical deep golden finish without frying
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