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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Extra Juicy

A stack of golden brown, crispy oven baked chicken tenders extra juicy, with one piece cut open showing the moist white meat inside.
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This recipe provides a method for making chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and remain very moist inside using only an oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crisp)
  • Cooking spray (high heat oil based)

Instructions

  1. Soak the chicken tenders in the buttermilk mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This helps keep them juicy.
  2. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with a wire rack and lightly spray the rack with cooking spray. Placing the chicken on a rack allows air to circulate, promoting crispiness.
  3. Set up your dredging station: Place the flour in one shallow dish. In a second dish, mix the Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, if using.
  4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, but do not pat dry.
  5. Dredge each tender first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  6. Dip the floured tender into the Panko mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere completely. This double coating helps seal in moisture and adds crunch.
  7. Place the coated tenders on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they do not touch.
  8. Spray the tops of the coated tenders generously with cooking spray. This mimics the effect of frying oil.
  9. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time.
  10. Spray the second side lightly with cooking spray after flipping. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the coating is golden brown and crisp.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside.
  • Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of standard breadcrumbs for superior crunch.
  • Do not skip the wire rack; it is essential for achieving a crispy bottom crust in the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://epicureempire.com/crispy-oven-baked-chicken-tenders-extra-juicy/