Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders

Name: Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenderloins; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Everyday Favorites

I absolutely love making Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders for my family and friends! There's something so satisfying about taking juicy, tender chicken and giving it a perfectly crisp coat without the guilt of frying. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. These tenders are not only delicious but also quick and easy to whip up. You can customize the spices to suit your taste – it’s a versatile dish that everyone enjoys, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make over and over again.

Created by

Seraphina Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:49:36.172Z

When I first attempted making oven-fried chicken tenders, I was amazed at how the oven could deliver such a delightful crunch! I experimented with a few different breading techniques, and I found that using panko breadcrumbs gave my tenders that ultra-crispy exterior I was aiming for. It’s also much simpler than deep-frying since you can toss everything onto a baking sheet.

One particular evening, I decided to serve these tenders with a homemade dipping sauce, which really elevated the whole experience. A mix of honey mustard and barbecue sauce became an instant favorite in our household. I highly recommend trying this combination; it complements the chicken's flavor beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy texture without the guilt of frying
Juicy chicken tenders that are seasoned to perfection
Great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner

Ingredient Insights

The choice of chicken tenderloins is crucial for achieving that juicy texture in your Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders. Tenderloins are naturally more succulent compared to other cuts, which means they stay moist even after baking. If tenderloins are unavailable, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but be careful not to overcook them as they’ll dry out more quickly. For an added flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the buttermilk to infuse it with a deeper tang.

Panko breadcrumbs are key for achieving that signature crunchy crust. They have a coarser texture than regular breadcrumbs, allowing them to create a lighter, airier texture once baked. If panko isn’t available, you can pulse regular breadcrumbs in a food processor to achieve a similar consistency. Additionally, adding some grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture can enhance the flavor and give the tenders an extra crispiness.

Baking Tips

When baking the chicken tenders, using parchment paper on the baking sheet is essential. It prevents sticking and ensures that the tenders can cook evenly without burning on the bottom. A light spray of cooking spray on the parchment will also encourage further crisping. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the tenders inside. This will give them that perfect golden-brown finish without needing to fry.

For optimal texture and to avoid soggy breading, resist the temptation to crowd the baking sheet. Space the tenders out to allow heat circulation. If you have to bake in batches, try to keep the second batch in the refrigerator while the first cooks. This helps maintain their firmness, preventing them from getting too warm and gooey before baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your crispy oven fried chicken tenders:

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crispy tenders:

Prepare the Chicken

In a medium bowl, soak the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes. This step not only helps tenderize the meat but also enhances the flavor.

Mix Breading Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.

Bake the Tenders

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Once cooked to perfection, serve your chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding some grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs. It adds a lovely flavor and texture to the coating.

Make-Ahead and Storing

These chicken tenders can be a fantastic make-ahead option. After coating them, you can place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

If you have leftovers, store your chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help them regain their crispy texture. Microwaving isn’t recommended, as it can make the breading soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Pair them with homemade dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch dressing for a fun family dinner. Alternatively, you could slice them up and toss them in a fresh salad, adding crunch and protein.

For a playful twist, try making chicken tender sliders! Use mini buns and layer the tenders with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauces. These sliders make for a perfect party snack or a quick lunchtime treat. You could even add some avocado slices or a slice of cheese if you want to elevate the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier texture that works best for this recipe.

→ How can I store leftover chicken tenders?

You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze the uncooked chicken tenders?

Absolutely! You can freeze the coated tenders before baking. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

→ What can I serve with these chicken tenders?

They pair well with salads, fries, or your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.