Go Back
Classic Homemade Chicken Tenders photo

Homemade Chicken Tenders

These Homemade Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious! Perfect for dinner or a late-night snack!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:
  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch thick strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt for seasoning flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt for seasoning eggs
  • 2 cups plain panko bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt for seasoning breading
  • Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil recommended)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Shallow dishes
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Cooking Spray

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. Start by washing your chicken tenderloins or cut chicken breasts under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In three separate shallow dishes, prepare your dredging station. In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs, water, and the additional teaspoon of seasoned salt. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in the third dish and mix in the last teaspoon of seasoned salt.
  3. Take one chicken tender, dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
  5. Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  6. Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • For freezing, place cooked tenders in a single layer, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag.