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How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
If you're a fan of delicious, crispy chicken tenders but want to skip the frying process, then this recipe is for you. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to make perfectly crispy baked chicken tenders that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these homemade chicken tenders are sure to be a hit.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken tenders (about 1 pound)
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs (2)
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Cooking spray
2. Prepare the Coating
To achieve that irresistible crispy exterior, it's essential to create a flavorful coating. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a shallow bowl, combine half a cup of all-purpose flour with a teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
In another bowl, beat two eggs together. In a third bowl, combine one cup of panko breadcrumbs with a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese adds an extra crunch and savory taste to the chicken tenders.
3. Coat and Bake
Now it's time to coat the chicken tenders and get them ready for baking. Dip each tender into the flour mixture, making sure they're coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tender in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help the coating set and remain crispy. Serve your homemade crispy baked chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. They make an excellent appetizer for parties or a satisfying main course when paired with side dishes like french fries or coleslaw.
Now that you know how to make crispy baked chicken tenders, it's time to put your culinary skills to the test. Invite friends and family over to enjoy this delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders. Get creative with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Remember, making it yourself always adds that extra touch of love and satisfaction!
Q/A Section:
- Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?
- Absolutely! You can slice chicken breast into smaller pieces to create your own chicken tenders.
- Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
- While they're best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the coating and freeze the uncooked chicken tenders. When ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.
- Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
- Yes, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just make sure all the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.