Every family has that one recipe that disappears from the plate before you even sit down. For many homes including mine it’s these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. There is something irresistible about the golden crunchy coating giving way to juicy tender chicken beneath. The aroma alone brings kids into the kitchen asking if dinner is ready. And the best part? These tenders are baked not fried meaning you get all the crispiness with none of the mess or heaviness.
Chicken tenders are naturally loved by kids but this recipe elevates them into something truly crave worthy. The coating is made with panko for extra crunch along with simple seasonings that add flavor without being too strong for young eaters. The chicken stays incredibly tender because it bakes quickly at high heat sealing in moisture and creating that perfect texture. Every bite is crunchy flavorful and comforting something both kids and adults enjoy without hesitation.
The first time I made these crispy baked chicken tenders I knew they would become a constant request. The kitchen smelled like garlic paprika and warm toasted panko as they baked. When I pulled them from the oven the exterior was golden and crisp while the inside stayed juicy. My kids took one bite and immediately asked for more. Since then this recipe has been a weekly regular always met with excitement and empty plates. It’s the kind of dinner that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum happiness.
Let’s walk through exactly how to make these kid approved crispy baked chicken tenders at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
For the Coating
1 cup flour
2 eggs beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Optional Dips
Ketchup
Honey mustard
Ranch
BBQ sauce
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry and season with salt pepper garlic powder and paprika. This adds flavor before breading begins.
Prepare the Coating Stations
Place flour in one bowl eggs in a second and panko mixed with paprika garlic powder and olive oil in a third. The oil helps the coating crisp in the oven.
Coat the Chicken
Dip each tender into flour shake off extra then dip into egg then press into the panko coating. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crunch.
Bake Until Golden
Place tenders on a lined baking sheet and bake at high heat until crispy and cooked through. Flip halfway for even color and texture.
Serve Warm with Dips
Enjoy immediately for maximum crispiness.
What These Chicken Tenders Taste Like
Crispy and Crunchy
The panko creates an irresistible golden crust.
Juicy and Tender
Quick baking keeps the chicken moist inside.
Mild and Flavorful
Seasoned perfectly for kids while still delicious for adults.
Comforting and Familiar
Better than fast food yet healthier and homemade.
Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Tenders
Use Panko Not Regular Breadcrumbs
Panko delivers superior crunch.
Add Oil to the Coating
Ensures the tenders crisp beautifully in the oven.
Do Not Overbake
Removes moisture and toughens chicken.
Flip Once
Creates even crispness on both sides.
Use a Rack if Possible
Lifts the tenders for all around crispiness.
Variations
Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Add grated Parmesan to the panko.
Spicy Chicken Tenders
Add cayenne to the seasoning.
Herb Crusted Tenders
Add parsley oregano or thyme.
Gluten Free Version
Use gluten free breadcrumbs.
How to Serve Chicken Tenders
With Fries or Potato Wedges
A classic kid loved pairing.
With Vegetables
Serve with carrots cucumbers or green beans.
With Mac and Cheese
A favorite comfort meal combination.
As Wraps or Sandwiches
Add lettuce tomatoes and sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerate
Keeps for up to three days.
Freeze Before Baking
Freeze coated tenders and bake directly from frozen.
Reheat
Warm in air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
Why Kids Devour This Recipe Every Time
Crunchy and Fun to Eat
The coating stays crisp not soggy.
Mild Flavor Kids Love
Simple seasonings that never overwhelm.
Perfect Texture
Juicy inside crisp outside.
Comfort Food Made Healthier
Baked not fried.
My Kids Devour Every Time Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders is the kind of recipe that brings happiness to the dinner table with almost no effort. Crunchy warm satisfying and always kid approved this dish is guaranteed to disappear fast.