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Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Crispy Crunchy Chicken Tenders You Can Bake at Home

These Crunchy Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried options, offering great taste and texture without the guilt.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Brining Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 32 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins Can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Toasting enhances flavor and color.
  • 0.5 cup Plain Flour (All-Purpose) Helps create batter consistency.
For the Batter
  • 2 large Eggs Binds crumbs to chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Thins the batter for better adhesion.
Seasoning Essentials
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses chicken with aromatic flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Offers mild heat.
For Baking
  • 2 tablespoons Oil Vegetable oil or melted butter for optimal crispiness.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven
  • air fryer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crunchy Chicken Tenders
  1. Brine Chicken (Optional): In a bowl, mix the tenderloins with salt and let them sit in the fridge for 30-40 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Toast Breadcrumbs: Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Toss panko with oil and spread on a baking sheet. Toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  3. Prepare Batter: Whisk together eggs, water, flour, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth. Adjust salt if brined.
  4. Coat Chicken: Dredge each tenderloin in batter, let excess drip off, then coat in toasted breadcrumbs. Place on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake tenders for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Optionally Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Cook tenders in a single layer for 8-10 minutes until crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 18gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For even crunch, ensure tenders are fully coated and spread out on the baking sheet. Consider preparing a double batch for freezing.

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