Description
A simple, kid-approved baked chicken tender recipe using just panko, Parmesan, and chicken. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in under 30 minutes without deep frying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and slice horizontally into strips about 1 inch wide and 1/2 inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, melt the butter or oil.
- Dip each chicken strip into the melted butter, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the panko mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange coated tenders on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Lightly spray tops with cooking spray or brush with more butter/oil.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then flip tenders using tongs.
- Bake for another 8-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden brown.
- Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Patting the chicken dry is crucial for the coating to stick. Press the panko mixture onto the chicken rather than rolling it. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crispiness. For extra crunch, broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken tenders, baked chicken, parmesan chicken, panko chicken, easy dinner, kid-friendly meals, healthy chicken recipe, 30 minute meals