– 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
Creating Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure perfect results every time:
1. Preheat your Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into strips if not pre-cut. Pat dry with paper towels for better coating adherence.
3. Mix Breading Ingredients: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Prepare Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth.
5. Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off before rolling in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coverage.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place coated chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
7. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
8. Bake in the Oven: Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C).
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist tenders.
These steps will guide you effortlessly in making these incredible chicken tenders that are sure to please everyone at the table!