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Chicken tenders are a beloved culinary creation, cherished by families and food enthusiasts alike. Known for their tender texture and irresistible flavor, these bite-sized pieces of chicken are a staple in many households, especially when it comes to pleasing picky eaters. The universal appeal of chicken tenders lies not only in their taste but also in their versatility — they can be served as a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying snack, or a delightful addition to a festive gathering.

Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Discover a healthier twist on a classic favorite with these Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Perfectly tender and packed with flavor, this easy-to-follow recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and savory Parmesan, these chicken tenders require no frying, making them a lighter choice that still delivers that satisfying crunch. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a family-friendly dish everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken breast tenders

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Olive oil spray (or any cooking spray)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Breadings: In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Prepare the Chicken: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until well combined. This will act as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.

        Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

          Spray with Oil: Once all the chicken tenders are on the baking sheet, lightly spray them with olive oil. This helps to achieve that golden, crispy texture as they bake.

            Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Halfway through cooking, flip the tenders over for even crispiness.

              Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 35 mins | 4 servings