Extra crispy baked chicken nuggets with a golden coating and irresistible crunch. Kid-friendly, and simple ingredients-no eggs, no cheese, so perfect for quick, healthier weeknight dinners.
You might also like Peri Peri Chicken and Sweet and Salty Chicken.
Baked chicken tenders are one of those rare recipes that please everyone-from picky kids to flavor-loving adults. With the right techniques, you can create crispy, golden perfection straight from the oven.
💡 Hosting tip: These chicken nuggets can be made up to 48 hours in advance: Bread and freeze fully assembled up to 48 hours ahead. Bake from frozen at 400°F - the frozen interior actually forces the exterior to crisp before the interior overcooks, producing a better texture than fresh. See my full Make-Ahead Appetizers Guide for timing on every type of party bite.
Easy Chicken Nugget Recipe
I am a huge fan of chicken tenders and breaded chicken! If you have a chicken nugget loving family member - they will go crazy for them. These succulent and juicy oven fried chicken tenders take 10 minutes of prep work and only 30 minutes of oven time. No deep frying, no cheese or no eggs required!
And there you have an easy and healthy version of a typically unhealthy meal. After all, crunchy chicken nuggets can be really-really good, and without all the frying and oil. Perfect family friendly meal in under 30 minutes!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy without frying - achieve golden crunch in the oven using high heat and smart breading techniques.
- Kid-friendly and crowd-approved - universally loved finger food that works for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings.
- Customizable seasonings - from classic herbs to spicy or cheesy coatings, the flavor options are endless.
- Healthier and lighter - less oil, less cleanup, no eggs (and no cheese) and equally satisfying results. So if you are like me and were looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken nuggets for your child, these oven baked chicken tenders are the answer. I find that this baked version of chicken nuggets also tastes a lot better.
Ingredients and Why They Matter
- Chicken tenders or chicken breast strips: Look for uniform pieces to ensure even baking. Chicken tenders have natural juiciness that keeps them moist even at high oven temperatures.
- Flour: The first coating layer helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken. It builds the foundation for an even crust.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose panko for maximum crunch or traditional breadcrumbs for a finer texture. Toasted breadcrumbs add a deeper golden hue.
- Mayo: Mayo is the glue that will hold the crumbs together. And I think it's the mayo that makes them so addictive! By the way, I use regular mayo in the mixture, but like to eat them dipped into Sriracha mayo.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder are key to flavor. For added dimension, try smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs.
- Cooking spray or a drizzle of oil: Encourages browning and crisping during baking, mimicking the texture of fried chicken.
How to Bake Chicken Nuggets
- Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack. Elevating tenders on a rack allows hot air to circulate evenly, promoting crispness.
- Set up your dredging station:
- Mayo with salt and pepper in the first bowl.
- Breadcrumb mixture in the second.
- Coat each tender: Dip chicken in the mayo first, then breadcrumbs, pressing the coating gently so it adheres.
- Arrange tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer without overlapping. Crowding prevents crisping.
- Lightly spray or brush with oil on top before baking to help the crust turn golden.
- Bake until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway for even color and crunch. Internal temperature should reach 165°F. Make sure the oven is hot - The hot oven ensures a crisp coating instead of a soggy one.
Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets
Baked chicken tenders (or you may call them baked chicken nuggets) can be really-really good, and without all the frying and oil.
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Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 ½ cups Panko Bread Crumbs
- ½ tablespoon Garlic Powder
- ½ tablespoon Onion Powder
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Thyme (optional)
- Sriracha Mayo (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken into 1" strips going with the grain of the meat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare two bowls. In a first bowl, mix Bread Crumbs, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt and Pepper. Place mayonnaise in a 2nd mixing bowl.
- Dredge the cut chicken into mayonnaise, then dredge in seasoned Panko mixture.
- Place coated chicken in a single layer on the parchment paper lined baking sheet, leaving room between each tender.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, turn each piece, bake for 15 more minutes.
- Tenders will be lightly browned and delicious. Sprinkle with thyme (optional) and serve with Sriracha mayo or sauce of your choice!
Calories: 356kcal
Nutrition Facts
Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets
Amount per Serving
Calories
356
% Daily Value*
Fat
32
g
49
%
Saturated Fat
5
g
31
%
Cholesterol
53
mg
18
%
Sodium
333
mg
14
%
Potassium
223
mg
6
%
Carbohydrates
1
g
0
%
Protein
12
g
24
%
Vitamin A
45
IU
1
%
Vitamin C
0.7
mg
1
%
Calcium
9
mg
1
%
Iron
0.4
mg
2
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Tenders
- Use panko breadcrumbs: These larger flakes crisp better than standard breadcrumbs.
- Chill the coated tenders before baking: A short rest in the fridge helps the breading adhere firmly.
- Preheat your baking sheet: Heat it in the oven for a few minutes before adding the chicken to jumpstart crisping.
- Don't overbake: Remove as soon as the chicken reaches temperature to avoid dryness.
- Try a convection setting: If available, the circulated air enhances browning and crunch.
Flavor Variations
- Parmesan Herb: Mix shredded Parmesan with Italian seasoning for a savory twist.
- Spicy Cajun: Add cayenne, chili powder, and a hint of smoked paprika to your breadcrumbs.
- Honey Mustard Crusted: Stir a little honey mustard into the egg mixture for subtle sweetness.
- Coconut Crusted: Swap breadcrumbs for shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
The Secret Ingredient
The "special ingredient" in these baked breaded chicken nuggets is the Panko because of its lighter and more delicate texture. It results in a more crispy and crunchy end product than breadcrumbs. Especially when you are baking chicken instead of frying; the panko makes a huge difference!
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders? Yes-slice into even strips so they cook uniformly.
- How do I make them extra crispy? Toast breadcrumbs before coating or finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
- Can I prepare them ahead of time? Yes, coat and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking. Bake just before serving.
- Are baked chicken tenders healthy? Yes, they have significantly less oil than fried versions while still delivering crunch and flavor.
- What's the best side dish? Roasted potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad complement them beautifully.
How to reheat chicken nuggets
- You can certainly reheat crunchy chicken tenders on the stove top. Add a little oil or butter and cook them on medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes.
- But my recommendation is to bake the tenders either on the parchment paper lined baking sheet or a wire rack, if you have one. Preheat the oven to 325 and bake for 7 yo 10 minutes. Usually 10 minutes in the oven will deliver great taste and crispiness once again!
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Pair your baked chicken tenders with one (or several) of these crowd-pleasing dips:
- Classic honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- Buffalo sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Barbecue sauce
- Sweet chili sauce
Serving Suggestions
- Sriracha mayo as a dipping option is a great option for adults that enjoy baked chicken tenders. Serve over a crisp Avocado, Tomato & Cucumber Salad for a light meal.
- Mix equal parts of ketchup and mayo and use it a dip! This is my personal favorite, especially when paired with Honey Roasted Carrots, French fries, or Garlic Butter Spaghetti.
- Honey mustard dressing or Dijon Mustard taste great with chicken nuggets and I also like to sprinkle my nuggets with fresh herbs, like thyme.
- And of course they are perfectly delicious dipped in traditional ketchup-so perfect as a finger food platter for game nights or parties.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
- To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Arrange cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. This prevents sticking.
- To reheat: For best results, reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, which softens the coating.
More Easy Chicken Recipes
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Leigh says
How many chicken strips are in the serving size?
Olya says
Two chicken strips (the total serving is based on two chicken breasts, cut up)
Victoria says
OMG!! These are so delicious! I did change it a bit. I mixed the seasonings with the mayo and let it meld for a few hours. Then brushed the aioli on the chicken and then coated with the panko crumbs. Soooo yummy!!! Thank you!!
Olya says
I love the idea of using aioli!