Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of homemade chicken tenders! Juicy, tender chicken strips coated in a crispy, golden-brown exterior make for the perfect family dinner or a delightful snack. These homemade baked chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare, but they also remove the guilt of frying, showcasing a healthier twist on a classic favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or traditional)
- Cooking spray
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a spacious bowl, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential for tenderizing the chicken, allowing it to soak up moisture and flavor.
- While the chicken is soaking, prepare the coating. In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- In another shallow dish, pour in the breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crunch, while traditional breadcrumbs provide a classic texture.
- After the chicken has marinated, remove the strips from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour before moving to the next step.
- Next, dip the flour-coated chicken into the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they stick well. This will create that wonderful crispy layer.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. For an added touch of crispiness, spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and beautifully golden brown, so flip them halfway for even cooking.
- Once out of the oven, let the chicken tenders cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken strips overnight in buttermilk.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or even add some hot sauce to the buttermilk.
- These tenders can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the technique of dredging is key to achieving that perfect crunchy coating. Ensure that each step is followed carefully—beginning with the buttermilk soak to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken, followed by a thorough coating in the flour mix and breadcrumbs. Using parchment paper will help achieve even baking and make cleanup a breeze!
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give a richer flavor and remain juicy.
- What dipping sauces pair well with baked chicken tenders? Classic choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo.
- Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! This recipe is designed specifically for baking, delivering a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
These homemade baked chicken tenders are a delightful treat that brings joy to any mealtime. Perfectly golden and delightfully crispy, they make for a fantastic dish that both kids and adults will adore. Combine them with a fresh side salad or some veggies for a wholesome meal. Enjoy every satisfying bite!