Deliciously crispy baked chicken tenders served on a plate.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy meal that everyone loves. They are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a great choice for family dinners or parties. Baking instead of frying means they are a healthier option without sacrificing crunch. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite dipping sauces!

how to make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

  • 600 g (1 lb 5 oz) chicken tenderloins (or use boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips)
  • ½ cup (125 ml) buttermilk (see note 1 for substitute)
  • 1½ cups (90 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour
  • 1 tbsp sweet paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • ½ tsp sea salt flakes, plus extra to season after baking
  • ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
  • Olive oil spray, or olive oil to drizzle
  • 1 cup (250 g) whole-egg mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (can be substituted with lemon juice)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Oven fries or air fryer chips
  • Simple green salad

Directions

  1. Place the buttermilk and flour in a large bowl and whisk to combine. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat. Let them sit for 20 minutes (or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours) to help tenderize the chicken and keep it juicy. You can also proceed with the recipe immediately.

  2. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, both mustards, honey, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir until smooth.

  3. Oven method: Preheat to 240°C (425°F) (220°C/200°C fan-forced) for at least 15–20 minutes. Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Air fryer method: Preheat to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes.

  4. In a large bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano (if using), salt, and pepper.

  5. Lift the chicken pieces out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down firmly to help the crumbs stick.

  6. Oven method: Arrange the chicken on the prepared tray and spray or drizzle generously with olive oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and cooked through. Air fryer method: Arrange the chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Spray lightly with olive oil and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp, golden and cooked through.

  7. Serve the crispy chicken tenders with fries, green salad, and the honey mustard sauce for dipping.

how to serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are best served hot and fresh. Pair them with oven fries or air fryer chips and a simple green salad for a complete meal. Add the honey mustard sauce on the side for a tasty dip, making every bite even more enjoyable.

how to store Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

To store leftover chicken tenders, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispy texture.

tips to make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

  • For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a full 24 hours.
  • Make sure your oven is preheated properly; a hot oven helps achieve that perfect crunch.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crispy results; they are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs.

variation

You can easily customize these chicken tenders by adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture or trying different dipping sauces. For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a twist, try pairing them with BBQ sauce instead of honey mustard.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenderloins?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into strips for this recipe.

2. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

3. How can I make these tenders gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chicken tenders, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.