Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Chicken:; 1½ lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1½ tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp salt; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 2 large eggs; 5½ cups cornflakes; 1 tbsp dried parsley; Light olive oil cooking spray; For Honey Mustard Sauce:; ½ cup plain greek yogurt; 2½ tbsp honey; 3 tbsp light mayonnaise; 1½ tbsp dijon mustard; 1½ tbsp Yellow Mustard; 1½ tsp lemon juice; salt

Looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders? These crispy baked chicken tenders are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With a golden, crunchy coating and a tender, juicy interior, they're perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Photos of Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

One ingredient you might not have readily available is plain greek yogurt. This is used in the honey mustard sauce and adds a creamy texture along with a slight tang. If you don’t have cornflakes at home, make sure to grab a box; they give the chicken tenders their irresistible crunch. Dijon mustard might also be something to add to your shopping list if you don't already have it in your pantry.

Ingredients For Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: These form the base of the dish, offering lean protein and a mild flavor that pairs well with various coatings and spices.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken, helping the egg mixture and cornflakes adhere better.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the flour mixture.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste and seasons the chicken.

Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a touch of heat and complexity to the seasoning.

Large eggs: Help the cornflake coating stick to the chicken tenders.

Cornflakes: Crushed to create a crispy coating for the chicken tenders.

Dried parsley: Adds a subtle herby flavor to the cornflake coating.

Light olive oil cooking spray: Helps to crisp up the chicken tenders in the oven.

Plain greek yogurt: Used in the honey mustard sauce, adding creaminess and tang.

Honey: Sweetens the honey mustard sauce.

Light mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the dipping sauce without too many extra calories.

Dijon mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the honey mustard sauce.

Yellow mustard: Provides a milder mustard flavor to balance the dijon.

Lemon juice: Adds acidity and brightness to the dipping sauce.

One reader, Haley Jay says:

These crispy baked chicken tenders are a hit! Perfectly seasoned and incredibly crunchy, they make a fantastic meal. The honey mustard sauce is the perfect complement. My family loved them, and I appreciate how easy the recipe is to follow. Will definitely make again!

Haley Jay

Techniques Required for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

How to crush cornflakes: Place cornflakes in a resealable plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin or your hands until they reach a fine, breadcrumb-like consistency. How to dredge chicken: Coat the chicken strips in flour, ensuring all sides are covered, before dipping them into the egg mixture and then coating them with the cornflake mixture. How to use a wire cooling rack in the oven: Place the wire cooling rack on a rimmed baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the chicken tenders, ensuring even cooking and crispiness. How to check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the chicken tenders reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safe consumption.

How To Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Experience a satisfying crunch with every bite of these baked chicken tenders. Pair it with a rich and creamy honey mustard sauce for a sweet-spicy taste.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

1½lbsboneless skinless chicken breasts,sliced into even strips
½cupall-purpose flour
1½tspgarlic powder
2tspsalt
½tspfreshly ground black pepper
2largeeggs
5½cupscornflakes,finely crushed
1tbspdried parsley
light olive oil cooking spray

For Honey Mustard Sauce:

½cupplain Greek yogurt
2½tbsphoney
3tbsplight mayonnaise
1½tbspdijon mustard
1½tbspyellow mustard,prepared
1½tsplemon juice
salt,to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a large oven safe cooling rack with olive oil spray and set on a large rimmed baking sheet, set aside.
In a shallow dish whisk together flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
In a separate shallow dish whisk together eggs until well blended.
To a third separate dish add crushed cornflakes or panko, stir in parsley.
Working with one chicken strip at a time, dredge both sides well in flour. Transfer to eggs coat both sides.
Transfer to cornflake mixture and press into cornflakes, flip and coat opposite side while pressing well to get them to stick well.
Transfer to wire cooling rack on the baking sheet, repeat process with remaining chicken.
Spray each piece lightly with olive oil cooking spray. Bake in preheated until center registers 165 degrees F on the thickest piece for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Cool several minutes, season with more salt if needed.
For the dipping sauce, stir together all ingredients in a small mixing bowl while seasoning lightly with salt to taste.
Cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 444.02kcal
Fat: 10.50g
Saturated Fat: 2.83g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.87g
Carbohydrates: 47.41g
Fiber: 1.98g
Sugar: 13.15g
Protein: 39.56g
Cholesterol: 177.57mg
Sodium: 604.11mg
Calcium: 52.69mg
Potassium: 597.07mg
Iron: 10.68mg
Vitamin A: 193.28µg
Vitamin C: 7.55mg

Key Technique for Achieving Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

When coating the chicken in the cornflake mixture, make sure to press the cornflakes firmly onto the chicken to ensure an even and crispy coating. This will help the cornflakes adhere better and create a more uniform crust when baked.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-crushed cornflakes: Save time by buying pre-crushed cornflakes or crushing them in bulk ahead of time.

Double the batch: Make extra chicken tenders and freeze them. Reheat for a quick meal later.

Multitask the sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the honey mustard sauce to save time.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, saving time on washing dishes.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

boneless skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a bit more fiber and nutrients while still providing a good coating.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the taste of the chicken.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the seasoning.
large eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the coating adhere to the chicken and adds a slight tanginess.
cornflakes - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crispy texture and are often used in breading.
dried parsley - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano offers a different herbal note that complements the chicken well.
light olive oil cooking spray - Substitute with canola oil cooking spray: Canola oil spray has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative.
plain greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream has a similar consistency and tanginess, making it a good substitute for Greek yogurt.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a different but equally sweet flavor that pairs well with mustard.
light mayonnaise - Substitute with regular mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise can be used if light mayonnaise is not available, though it will add more calories.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar flavor profile and texture.
yellow mustard - Substitute with spicy brown mustard: Spicy brown mustard offers a bit more heat and depth of flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess.

Presenting Your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces to create an elegant and refined presentation. This allows for a more sophisticated dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley and a few microgreens to add a touch of color and freshness.
Elegant plating: Arrange the chicken tenders in a fan shape on a pristine white plate. Place a small ramekin of the honey mustard sauce in the center for dipping.
Texture contrast: Add a small side of lightly dressed mixed greens to the plate to provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken tenders.
Drizzle for effect: Lightly drizzle a bit of the honey mustard sauce around the plate in an artistic pattern to enhance visual appeal.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure the cornflakes are crushed to a uniform size for consistent coating and a professional finish.
Temperature control: Serve the chicken tenders immediately after baking to ensure they remain crispy and hot, which is crucial for a top-tier dining experience.
Balance flavors: Season the honey mustard sauce with a touch of extra lemon juice and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and add a zesty kick.
Attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the plate clean before serving to ensure a pristine presentation that meets the standards of culinary professionals.

Essential Tools for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Oven: Used to bake the chicken tenders at a consistent temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Large oven-safe cooling rack: Placed on a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken tenders for even cooking and crispiness.
Large rimmed baking sheet: Holds the cooling rack and catches any drips or crumbs during baking.
Olive oil cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the cooling rack and the chicken tenders to ensure they crisp up nicely.
Shallow dish: Used for holding the flour mixture, egg mixture, and cornflake mixture separately for dredging the chicken tenders.
Whisk: Used to blend the flour mixture and the egg mixture evenly.
Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the ingredients for the honey mustard dipping sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to measure out the ingredients accurately for both the chicken tenders and the dipping sauce.
Small mixing bowl: Used to mix and store the honey mustard dipping sauce until ready to serve.

Storing and Freezing Your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the chicken tenders, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This method prevents the tenders from sticking together, allowing you to easily grab the desired amount later. Frozen chicken tenders can be stored for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. There's no need to thaw them first.
For the best results, avoid microwaving the chicken tenders, as this can cause them to become soggy and lose their crispy texture. Reheating them in the oven will help maintain their crispiness.
The honey mustard sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly over time.

How To Reheat Leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

The best way to reheat leftover crispy baked chicken tenders is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crispy on all sides. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Another option is to use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken tenders in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method is quick and helps maintain the original crispiness of the chicken tenders.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the chicken tenders in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval to avoid overcooking. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a slightly softer texture compared to the oven or air fryer methods.
Avoid reheating the chicken tenders in a skillet or pan on the stovetop, as this can cause them to become greasy and lose their crispiness. The dry heat of the oven or air fryer is the best way to maintain the original texture.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Interesting Fact About Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

A fun fact about this crispy baked chicken tenders recipe is that using cornflakes instead of traditional breadcrumbs adds an extra layer of crunch and flavor. This method not only makes the chicken tenders more crispy but also gives them a unique texture that is both satisfying and delicious.

Is Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders at Home Cost-Effective?

This crispy baked chicken tenders recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, cornflakes, and eggs are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The homemade honey mustard sauce adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Are Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Healthy or Unhealthy?

This crispy baked chicken tenders recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. Here's why:

Baking instead of frying significantly reduces the amount of oil and fat in the dish
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts provides lean protein
The cornflake coating adds a satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying
The honey mustard sauce uses Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise, reducing the overall calorie and fat content

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as 2 teaspoons may be excessive for some individuals
Opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free honey in the dipping sauce to minimize added sugars
Include a side of fresh, colorful vegetables to balance out the meal and provide additional vitamins and minerals

To make this recipe even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:

Use a mix of finely crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) and cornflakes for the coating to increase the healthy fat and fiber content
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the coating, such as paprika, cumin, or thyme, to add flavor without relying on salt
Serve the chicken tenders over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal
Prepare a variety of dipping sauces, such as a spicy avocado sauce or a tangy tomato salsa, to keep things interesting and provide additional nutrients

Editor's Opinion on This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

This recipe for crispy baked chicken tenders is a delightful balance of texture and flavor. The use of cornflakes adds an exceptional crunch, while the garlic powder and parsley enhance the overall taste. Baking instead of frying makes it a healthier option without sacrificing crispiness. The honey mustard sauce, with its blend of Greek yogurt, honey, and mustards, provides a tangy and creamy complement to the tenders. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a successful outcome. Overall, it's a well-rounded dish perfect for both casual meals and entertaining guests.

Enhance Your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Imagine the crispiness of the chicken tenders paired with the tender snap of asparagus roasted to perfection. The garlic and parmesan add a savory depth that complements the herbs in the cornflake coating.

Sweet Potato Wedges with Cinnamon and Honey: Balance the savory chicken tenders with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Roasted to a caramelized finish and lightly dusted with cinnamon and honey, these wedges offer a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: Add a burst of color and nutrition with a vibrant quinoa and black bean salad. Tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime vinaigrette, this side dish brings a refreshing and wholesome element to your meal.

Creamy Avocado and Tomato Salad: Elevate your chicken tenders with a creamy and tangy avocado and tomato salad. The richness of the avocado pairs beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and a hint of lime, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Buttery Corn on the Cob with Herbs: Nothing says comfort like corn on the cob. Slathered in butter and sprinkled with fresh herbs, this side dish offers a sweet and savory bite that complements the crispy chicken tenders perfectly.

Similar Recipes to Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Imagine tender chicken breasts enveloped in a golden, crispy parmesan and breadcrumb coating. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Spice up your dinner with these fiery buffalo chicken tenders. Coated in a zesty buffalo sauce and baked to perfection, these tenders are perfect for game day or any day you crave a little heat. Serve with celery sticks and a side of blue cheese dressing.

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Sweet and savory honey garlic chicken bites are a delightful treat. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce and baked until crispy. They make for an excellent appetizer or a main course when served with rice or noodles.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these lemon herb chicken skewers. Marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, these skewers are grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and pita bread.

Teriyaki Chicken Thighs: Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce and baked until tender. These teriyaki chicken thighs are bursting with flavor and make for a fantastic dinner option. Pair with steamed broccoli and jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mixture is then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a delectable bite-sized treat that is both creamy and flavorful. Perfect for any gathering, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests with their rich taste and elegant presentation.

Caprese Skewers: Add a touch of Italian flair to your appetizer spread with Caprese Skewers. These delightful skewers feature alternating layers of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction and a hint of olive oil for an extra burst of flavor. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a refreshing and visually appealing appetizer that is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten core that oozes out with each bite, creating a perfect harmony of textures. The outer layer is a delicate, slightly crisp cake that contrasts beautifully with the luscious, flowing chocolate inside. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy any chocolate craving.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight in the tangy and sweet flavors of a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a smooth and zesty lemon curd. The topping is a cloud-like meringue, whipped to perfection and lightly toasted to a golden brown. The combination of the tart lemon filling and the sweet, airy meringue creates a refreshing and satisfying dessert experience. Serve chilled for a cool, refreshing treat. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of lemon zest on top. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is a timeless favorite.

Why trust this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe:

This recipe guarantees crispy baked chicken tenders with a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of garlic powder, cornflakes, and parsley ensures a delightful crunch and taste. The honey mustard sauce adds a tangy and sweet touch, making it an irresistible dip. Using light olive oil cooking spray keeps the tenders healthier without compromising on crispiness. Follow these steps for a foolproof, delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.

Have you tried this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the chicken tenders turn out crispy?

To ensure the chicken tenders are crispy, make sure to press the cornflake mixture firmly onto the chicken strips. Also, spraying them lightly with olive oil cooking spray before baking helps achieve that crispy texture.

Can I use a different type of cereal instead of cornflakes?

Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs or even crushed pretzels as an alternative to cornflakes. Just make sure whatever you use is finely crushed to stick well to the chicken.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

The chicken tenders are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it's done.

Can I make the honey mustard sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey mustard sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it well, and it should be good for a few days.

What can I serve with these chicken tenders?

These chicken tenders go great with a variety of sides like fries, a fresh salad, or even some steamed veggies. They’re also perfect for dipping in the honey mustard sauce!