Description
This Baked Chicken Tenders recipe features tender strips of chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust, baked to golden perfection. It’s a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders that’s perfect for a family-friendly meal, served with a sweet and savory honey soy dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dipping Sauce
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips and season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Set Up Coating Stations: In one bowl, whisk the eggs until blended. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful coating.
- Coat Chicken Strips: Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Arrange the coated strips evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking dish.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through, ensuring an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Prepare Dipping Sauce: While the chicken is baking, stir together the low-sodium soy sauce and honey in a small bowl to create a sweet and savory dipping sauce to complement the crispy tenders.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Using panko breadcrumbs gives a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Serve with fresh vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
