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🥘Recipes by Nani
Dinner

Golden Baked Chicken Tenders

These homemade chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a hit with everyone at the table.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· July 19, 2026
Golden Baked Chicken Tenders
recipesbynani.com
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
20 minutes
Total
30 minutes
Serves
4

There is something so comforting about a plate of crispy chicken tenders. These are baked in the oven instead of fried, which keeps the kitchen mess to a minimum and makes them a healthier option for a quick weeknight dinner.

My best tip for getting that signature crunch is to toast your breadcrumbs in a pan for a minute before coating the chicken. It gives the crust a beautiful golden color and a wonderful nutty flavor that makes all the difference.

🧺 Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey for serving

👩‍🍳Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  3. 3

    Dip each chicken tender into the melted butter so it is fully coated.

  4. 4

    Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until it is covered on all sides, then place it on your prepared baking sheet.

  5. 5

    Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.

  6. 6

    Serve warm with a drizzle of honey on the side for dipping.

💡 Tips

These are best enjoyed right out of the oven, but you can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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