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Fresh chicken tenders with Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs for crispy baked chicken recipe

Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

These oven-baked crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are a healthier, beginner-friendly alternative to fried chicken—ready in under 45 minutes with a crunchy, cheesy coating.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs whisked
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • olive oil spray for coating

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Shallow bowls
  • Wire whisk
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Set up a coating station with 3 bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, one with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Coat each chicken tender: dredge in flour, dip in egg (let excess drip), then coat with breadcrumb mixture. Press gently.
  5. Arrange coated tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer, without overlapping.
  6. Lightly spray tops with olive oil spray for better browning.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for maximum crispiness. Try adding Italian seasoning or cayenne for variation. Great for meal prep—reheat in the oven to restore crunch.