Today, I will make Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders, a crispy and delicious dish perfect for a quick dinner or snack. These chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful breading and baked to golden perfection, offering a healthier alternative to fried chicken.

What are Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders?

Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders are a savory dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a seasoned bread crumb mixture and baked until crispy. These tenders are a crowd-pleaser and make a great main dish or appetizer.

Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders Recipe

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these tenders are lower in fat.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Kid-Friendly: A favorite among children and adults alike.

Versatile: Perfect as a meal, snack, or party appetizer.
Flavorful: Seasoned breading adds a tasty crunch.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 cups bread crumbs (Panko or regular)

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil

Useful Equipment

Baking Sheet: For placing and baking the chicken tenders.
Parchment Paper: Line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Wire Rack (Optional): Place on the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the tenders for a crispier result.

Mixing Bowls: Prepare the breading mixture and coat the chicken tenders.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Tongs or a Fork: To coat the chicken tenders with the breading mixture and transfer them to the baking sheet.

Oven Thermometer (Optional): To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations:

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken:

Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated.

Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders:

Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Cool and Serve:

Let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

Fresh Salad: A light and refreshing side dish.

Fries: Classic pairing with chicken tenders.
Vegetable Sticks: Carrot and celery sticks for a healthy crunch.
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw complements the crispy chicken.

Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy side dish.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

Use Panko Bread Crumbs: For extra crunch.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensures even baking.

Turn Halfway Through: For even browning.
Press the Breading: Helps it adhere better to the chicken.
Season Generously: Enhances the flavor of the tenders.

Use Cooking Spray: Adds crispiness without excess oil.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading.
Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano.

Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour.
Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce and sesame seeds to the breading.

Storing Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders: Best Practices

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat Properly: Use the oven or air fryer for best results.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders: Best Practices

Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Air Fryer: Reheat for 5-7 minutes at 375°F.
Microwave: Use short intervals to avoid drying out the tenders.

How Can I Make Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders Healthier?

Use Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs: Substitute regular bread crumbs with whole wheat bread crumbs for added fiber and nutrients.
Bake Instead of Fry: Stick to baking the chicken tenders instead of frying to reduce the amount of oil and fat.
Use Skinless Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken breasts or tenders to cut down on saturated fat.

Incorporate Flaxseed or Chia Seeds: Mix ground flaxseed or chia seeds into the breading mixture for an added boost of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
Reduce Salt: Lower the amount of salt in the breading mixture and use herbs and spices to enhance flavor.
Add Vegetables: Serve the chicken tenders with a side of fresh or roasted vegetables to increase the nutritional value of the meal.

Use Greek Yogurt: Replace any mayonnaise or buttermilk in the recipe with plain Greek yogurt to add protein and reduce fat.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 10g

Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 550mg

Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g

Protein: 27g

FAQs

How do you make baked breaded chicken tenders crispy?

To make baked breaded chicken tenders crispy, use Panko bread crumbs instead of regular ones for extra crunch. Also, spray the breaded tenders lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil before baking. This helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Can you prepare Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time. Bread the tenders and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the breaded tenders and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do you prevent breading from falling off the chicken tenders?

To prevent the breading from falling off, ensure the chicken is dry before coating it with flour. Press the bread crumbs firmly onto the chicken to help them adhere. Additionally, allow the breaded tenders to rest for a few minutes before baking to set the breading.

What dipping sauces go well with Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders?

Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, spicy mayo, and sweet chili sauce. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor to the crispy chicken tenders.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken, perfect for any meal. With their crispy coating and tender meat, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe and share it with family and friends!

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