Description
These ultra-crispy oven-fried chicken tenders offer a healthier alternative to deep-fried takeout without sacrificing texture or flavor. Using a secret blend of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs, they achieve a restaurant-quality crunch while remaining juicy and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2–3 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thinner, even pieces, then cut into strips about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, and Italian seasoning; one with whisked eggs and a splash of buttermilk; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the panko step.
- Place a wire rack over a baking sheet. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they do not touch.
- Lightly coat the tops of the chicken tenders with avocado oil spray or brushed oil.
- Bake for 12 minutes, then flip the tenders. Bake for another 8-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating is deep golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crispiness, keep breaded tenders in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking. Do not crowd the pan to prevent steaming. To reheat, use an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes; do not microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders per servin
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: oven-fried chicken, healthy chicken tenders, crispy chicken, baked chicken, family dinner, weeknight meals, gluten-free option