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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Extra Juicy

Close-up of golden brown Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders on a white plate, one piece cut to show the juicy white interior.

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Follow this recipe to make chicken tenders in the oven that are crispy on the outside and very moist inside, avoiding deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon paprika
  • Cooking spray (or 2 tablespoons olive oil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with a wire rack and lightly spray the rack with cooking spray.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes.
  3. In the first dish, place the flour.
  4. In the second dish, whisk the eggs and water together.
  5. In the third dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. The baking powder helps create a crispier crust.
  6. Take each chicken tender strip and dredge it first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  7. Dip the floured strip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
  8. Press the strip firmly into the Panko mixture, ensuring it is completely coated. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere.
  9. Place the coated tenders on the prepared wire rack, leaving space between each piece.
  10. Lightly spray the tops of the coated tenders generously with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This aids browning and crisping.
  11. Bake for 10 minutes.
  12. Flip the tenders carefully. Spray the second side lightly with cooking spray.
  13. Bake for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crisp.
  14. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the bottom of the tenders, which prevents them from becoming soggy.
  • Do not skip the baking powder in the breading mix; it is key for oven crispiness.
  • For extra juicy results, you can soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for 30 minutes before starting the breading process.

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