Want tasty crispy chicken tenders without deep frying? You’re in the right spot! Homemade chicken strips are your new kitchen hero. They offer a healthier take on a beloved favorite.
Oven-baked chicken is perfect for families wanting a tasty meal. Our Southern-style method turns simple ingredients into golden, crispy treats. Everyone will want more.
Don’t settle for boring store-bought chicken. Making homemade strips is simple. With a few ingredients and our tips, you’ll make crispy chicken tenders at home. No deep fryer needed – just delicious, healthy food.
Ready to be the top chef at home? You’ll make oven-baked chicken that’s crispy outside, tender inside. It’s sure to please even the most finicky eaters.
Why Homemade Chicken Tenders Beat Store-Bought Every Time
Homemade chicken tenders are a big win for healthy chicken recipes. Making them at home lets you control what goes into them. This means better nutrition and taste for your family.
Benefits of Making Your Own Tenders
There are many good reasons to make your own chicken tenders:
- You choose the best ingredients.
- They have fewer bad additives.
- You can pick your seasonings and coatings.
- They taste fresher and more real.
Real Ingredients vs Processed Alternatives
Store-bought chicken tenders might have weird stuff and too much salt. Your homemade version is pure, fresh chicken with clear nutrition.
| Ingredient Category | Homemade Tenders | Store-Bought Tenders |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Fresh Chicken Breast | Mechanically Separated Meat |
| Sodium Content | Controlled | High |
| Preservatives | None | Multiple Additives |
Cost-Effective Family Meal Solution
Making chicken tenders at home is not only healthier. It’s also cheaper. You’ll save money and give your family tasty, nutritious meals.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders 🍗🍞
To make restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home, start with the right ingredients. Choose high-quality chicken breast as the base. The secret to a crispy coating is key to making your chicken extra tasty.
Your seasoning blend is what makes these chicken tenders special. Here’s what you need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch for extra crispiness
- Buttermilk for tender meat
When you mix these ingredients right, magic happens. A great crispy coating comes from the right mix of dry and wet stuff.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Quantity (4 servings) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | Protein Base | 1.5 lbs |
| All-Purpose Flour | Crispy Coating | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | Extra Crunch | 1/4 cup |
| Buttermilk | Tenderizer | 1 cup |
Pro tip: Add paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to your seasoning blend. This will give your chicken tenders a rich flavor. Your homemade meal will be crispy and golden, just like in a restaurant.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Turning chicken tenders into crispy, golden treats is easy. You can do it in your kitchen. Baking them right means using the right method for that crunchy texture we all love.
Creating the Perfect Coating Station
Start with a clean and organized area for breading. You’ll need three shallow dishes:
- First dish: Seasoned flour mixture
- Second dish: Beaten eggs with a splash of milk
- Third dish: Breadcrumbs with your favorite seasonings
Dry the chicken tenders before you coat them. This makes the coating stick better and get crisper in the oven.
Temperature and Timing Tips
When baking chicken tenders, be precise. Heat your oven to 375°F. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet for even cooking.
“The secret to perfect oven-fried chicken is consistent heat and proper air circulation.”
Achieving Golden-Brown Perfection
Cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes, flipping once. Look for a golden color and an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer ensures safe, perfect chicken.
- Bake until exterior is crisp and golden
- Check internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving
Pro tip: Spray a light coating of olive oil on the tenders before baking to enhance crispiness and color.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your homemade chicken tenders a full meal with tasty sides. Sweet potato fries are a great choice, being both healthy and crispy. Try making a homemade ranch dressing or tangy coleslaw to add flavor.
Planning meals with chicken tenders is easy. Pair them with a green salad or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal. Options like quinoa pilaf or cucumber salad add a fresh twist.
Dipping sauces make chicken tenders irresistible. Try garlic aioli, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo. These sauces can turn a simple meal into a special treat.
Remember, versatility is important when planning meals. Your chicken tenders can fit into many cuisines and flavors. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together.
Enjoy Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders at Home
Equipment
- – Baking sheet
- – Wire rack (optional but recommended for crispiness)
- – Mixing bowls
- – Whisk
- – Tongs
- – Parchment paper or cooking spray
Ingredients
- – 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- – 1 cup buttermilk or milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice
- – 1 large egg
- – 1 cup all-purpose flour
- – 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- – ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp paprika
- – ½ tsp onion powder
- – ½ tsp salt
- – ¼ tsp black pepper
- – Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk and egg. Add chicken tenders and let them soak while preparing the coating.
- In one bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove each chicken strip from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in flour, dip back in the buttermilk, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated tenders on the prepared baking rack or sheet. Lightly spray tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.