Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders (Crispy & Healthy)

There’s something incredibly satisfying about perfectly cooked chicken tenders—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. These Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders deliver all the comfort and crunch you love, without the heaviness of deep frying. They’re simple, wholesome, and made with everyday ingredients you can feel good about serving.

Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and baked until golden and crisp, these chicken tenders strike the perfect balance between indulgent and lighter fare. They’re tender, flavorful, and versatile enough to please everyone at the table—from kids to adults. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, an easy lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe fits effortlessly into your routine.

What makes these baked chicken tenders especially appealing is how approachable they are. No complicated steps, no special equipment, and no messy frying oil. Just straightforward preparation, oven-baked goodness, and reliable results every single time. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or serve them alongside simple sides for a meal that feels both comforting and homemade.

If you’re looking for a healthier, fuss-free alternative to classic fried chicken tenders—without sacrificing flavor or texture—this is the recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love It

These homemade baked chicken tenders are the perfect balance between comfort food and lighter, everyday cooking. You get everything you crave from classic chicken tenders—the crispy coating, the juicy interior, and the satisfying crunch—without the need for deep frying. That makes them ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a familiar favorite in a healthier, more approachable way.

One of the biggest reasons to love this recipe is its simplicity. The ingredients are straightforward, the steps are easy to follow, and the results are consistently delicious. There’s no messy oil, no complicated breading process, and no guesswork involved. Just coat, bake, and enjoy.

These chicken tenders are also incredibly versatile. They work just as well for a family dinner as they do for meal prep, game day snacks, or kid-friendly lunches. Pair them with different dipping sauces or sides, and they instantly feel like a brand-new meal.

Most importantly, this recipe is reliable. The tenders come out golden and crisp on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside—every single time. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your weekly rotation.

Ingredients + Tips

Main Ingredients

• Chicken Tenders or Chicken Breasts
  Chicken tenders are convenient, but sliced chicken breasts work just as well. The key is uniform size for even baking.

• Breadcrumbs
  Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest texture. Regular breadcrumbs also work if that’s what you have on hand.

• Parmesan Cheese
  Adds a savory, slightly nutty flavor and helps the coating brown beautifully.

• Eggs
  Act as the binding layer that helps the breadcrumb coating stick to the chicken.

• Seasonings
  Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper provide balanced, savory flavor without overpowering the chicken.

• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil
  A light coating helps the tenders crisp up in the oven.

Helpful Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before breading for better coating adhesion.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

• Place tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet for maximum crispiness.

• Flip halfway through baking for even browning.

Steps (Crispy Chicken & Coating)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for better air circulation.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the coating stick.

Step 4: Arrange on the Pan

Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, then flip the tenders. Continue baking for another 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

These baked chicken tenders are easy to customize based on taste or dietary needs.

• Spicy Chicken Tenders
  Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.

• Herb-Crusted Tenders
  Mix in dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley for added flavor.

• Gluten-Free Option
  Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

• Extra Cheesy Version
  Increase the Parmesan or add shredded mozzarella to the coating.

• Air Fryer Method
  Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until crispy and cooked through.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) or in an air fryer until heated through and crispy.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the coating.

These tenders also freeze well for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

Baked chicken tenders pair perfectly with simple sides and dips.

• Classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ

• French fries or sweet potato fries

• Fresh green salad for balance

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans

Serve them hot for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Homemade baked chicken tenders are proof that comfort food can be both satisfying and simple. This recipe delivers everything you love about classic chicken tenders—crispy coating, juicy meat, and big flavor—without the extra oil or hassle of frying. It’s a dish that fits seamlessly into busy schedules while still feeling homemade and comforting.

What makes these tenders especially appealing is how adaptable they are. You can keep them classic, spice them up, or adjust the seasoning to suit your family’s preferences. They work just as well for weeknight dinners as they do for lunches, snacks, or casual gatherings, making them one of those recipes you’ll reach for again and again.

This recipe is also incredibly approachable. Even if you’re new to cooking, the steps are clear and forgiving, and the results are consistently delicious. That reliability builds confidence in the kitchen—something every home cook appreciates.

Perhaps the best part is how these chicken tenders bring people together. They’re familiar, comforting, and universally loved, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Served fresh from the oven with a few simple sides, they turn an ordinary meal into something everyone looks forward to.

Once you make these baked chicken tenders, they’re likely to become a staple in your home. They’re easy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile—everything a great everyday recipe should be.