Panko Baked Chicken Tenders

A homemade take on a fast-food favorite, these baked chicken tenders are coated in extra-crunchy panko breadcrumbs.

This is a great recipe to make with kids, too. They can help measure and mix the batter and coat the chicken tenders.

Makes 4 Servings

Active Cook Time: 10 minutes

Inactive Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 ½ tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 pound chicken tenders or chicken breast, cut lengthwise into ⅔-inch strips
• Equipment: for best results, bake the chicken tenders on a baking sheet with a wire rack

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF.
2. Spread panko onto a baking pan and spray with cooking spray. Bake for 4 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic and onion powder, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Use a fork to mix thoroughly.
4. Add the chicken one piece at a time and coat evenly. Remove any clumps or excess batter with a rubber spatula.
5. Transfer chicken to the panko one piece at a time. Use one hand to coat each side of the chicken and the other hand to sprinkle panko on any parts that are not coated. Transfer to a baking sheet with a wire rack. (If you do not have a rack, coat the sheet pan with cooking spray.)
6. Repeat with the remaining chicken strips. Once all the chicken has been placed onto the baking sheet, spray the surface with cooking spray (this helps achieve a golden crust).
7. Bake for 10–15 minutes (small chicken tenders will take closer to 10 minutes; larger ones closer to 15 minutes).
8. Enjoy with your favorite condiments.

Nutritional Facts:

Calories 480, Fat 9g, Saturated 1g, Carbs 66g, Fiber 4g, Sugar 3g, Protein 35g, Sodium 503mg