Go Back

Crispy Chicken Tenders

These crispy chicken tenders are coated with seasoned panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then baked until golden outside and juicy inside. They are an easy family dinner and can also be served as a party appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt divided
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning optional
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Place a large baking sheet in the oven and preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels.
  3. Add the flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and half the black pepper to a shallow bowl.
  4. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with one tablespoon of water.
  5. In a third bowl, combine the panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, remaining salt, remaining pepper, and optional Italian seasoning.
  6. Coat each chicken tender lightly in flour and shake away the excess.
  7. Dip the chicken into the egg mixture and allow the excess to drip off.
  8. Press the chicken into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until completely coated.
  9. Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and lightly grease it.
  10. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer with space between each piece.
  11. Lightly spray or drizzle the tops with oil.
  12. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning halfway through when cooking directly on the pan.
  13. Remove the tenders when they are golden and the center reaches 165°F.
  14. Rest for three to five minutes before serving.
Air Fryer Instructions
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer.
  3. Lightly spray both sides with cooking oil.
  4. Air fry for 9 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through.
  5. Cook until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating.
  • Pat the chicken dry before beginning.
  • Press the crumbs firmly onto each tender.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
  • Avoid covering the cooked tenders because trapped steam softens the coating.
  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to four days.

Nutrition Per Serving

Nutrition is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the amount of coating used.
  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 45 grams
  • Fat: 13 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams