If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than these Easy Baked Chicken Tenders. Perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, these chicken tenders are a fantastic weeknight dinner option. Plus, they are made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will have your taste buds singing!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Easy Baked Chicken Tenders apart is the combination of flavorful seasonings and the use of whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch. The addition of parmesan cheese and flaxseed meal not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of this dish. You’ll enjoy a satisfying meal that’s baked instead of fried, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
Shopping List
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp flaxseed meal
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
Gear Checklist
- Baking sheet – for even cooking.
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture.
- Whisk or fork – to beat the egg and combine ingredients.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure chicken is cooked through.
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders will get that beautiful golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 3: Make the Egg Wash
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
In another bowl, mix together the whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, flaxseed meal, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
Step 6: Bake
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help keep them juicy!
How to Make It Lighter
- Use skinless chicken breasts instead of tenderloins for a leaner option.
- Replace the whole wheat panko with crushed cornflakes for a lighter crunch.
- Omit the parmesan cheese to reduce fat content.
- Opt for egg whites instead of whole eggs for fewer calories.
Author’s Commentary
This recipe for Easy Baked Chicken Tenders is not only a hit with kids but also a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients without them even noticing! I love how versatile this dish is; you can easily swap out the spices for your favorites or add some heat with cayenne pepper. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Enjoy!
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Leftover Easy Baked Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Reader Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips to create your own tenderloins. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as larger pieces may take a bit longer to cook through.
What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?
These Easy Baked Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a homemade ranch dressing. You can even try a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken tenders in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just coat them in the breadcrumb mixture and cover them until you’re ready to bake.
How do I ensure my chicken tenders stay crispy?
To keep your chicken tenders crispy, make sure they are evenly coated in the breadcrumb mixture and bake them on parchment paper, allowing air to circulate around them. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can cause them to steam instead of bake.
In Closing
There you have it! With this recipe for Easy Baked Chicken Tenders, you can create a family-friendly meal that is both tasty and nutritious. The ease of preparation and the delicious flavors make it a weeknight winner that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy these tenders with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to make them your own!
Easy Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix together the whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, flaxseed meal, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Replace panko with crushed cornflakes for a lighter crunch.
- Omit parmesan cheese to reduce fat content.
