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Crispy Panko Chicken Tenders

Crispy Panko Chicken Tenders


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 tenders 1x

Description

Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these crispy panko chicken tenders are pan-seared and oven-baked to golden perfection. Served with a bold balsamic mayo dip, they’re healthier than fried, packed with flavor, and easy to make.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Tenders

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips (approx. 12 tenders)

  • 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup egg whites

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt

  • 1/2 tsp paprika

  • 1/4 tsp dried basil

  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano

  • Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

  • Olive oil spray

Balsamic Mayo

  • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and set a wire rack on top. Lightly coat with oil spray.

  2. Slice chicken breast into uniform strips.

  3. In a shallow bowl, whisk egg whites. In another bowl, mix panko with all spices and herbs.

  4. Dip chicken into egg whites, then press into the seasoned panko to coat fully.

  5. Heat a frying pan over medium-high and spray with oil. Sear tenders for 2–3 minutes per side until golden (not fully cooked).

  6. Transfer tenders to the wire rack and bake for 15–20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  7. In a small bowl, mix mayo and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

  8. Let tenders rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra crisp, toast panko before using.

  • Add Parmesan cheese to the breading for richness.

  • Air fryer method: 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

 

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter dip.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Pan + Oven
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (3 tenders)
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg