Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you crave chicken tenders that are crunchy on the outside, juicy in the middle, and incredibly simple to whip up, you’ll love these Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, they deliver that irresistible golden crunch without the fuss of deep frying or complicated batters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s real beauty in how these ingredients come together to create the perfect crunch and flavor for Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders. Each one is easy to find but plays an essential role in the magic: tender chicken, a light coating, and golden flavor.

• Chicken breast tenders: These cook up quickly and stay juicy, but you can also use whole chicken breasts cut into strips or even boneless, skinless thighs for a richer bite.
• Eggs: Whisked eggs help the flour stick, adding moisture for that signature tender texture inside.
• All-purpose flour: The MVP of crispy coating—flour creates a superbly golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly moist.
• Canola oil: Spreading a generous amount on your sheet pan gives each tender a fried finish, no messy deep fryer required.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: These pantry classics are more than just seasoning—they bring all the flavors together, highlighting the savory notes in every bite.

Variations

One of the best things about these Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders is how simple they are to adapt! Dress them up with flavorful add-ins, swap out the breading, or fit them to any dietary need—it’s all up to you.

• Gluten-Free Swap: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for irresistibly crispy tenders everyone can enjoy.
• Spice It Up: Add cayenne, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a little kick.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir a handful of grated parmesan into the flour for a salty, savory twist.
• Herb Lover’s Dream: Mix chopped fresh parsley, dill, or Italian seasoning into the flour for a fragrant burst of flavor.

How to Make Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Sheet Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to a piping hot 425°F—the secret to achieving a deep golden crust. Pour the canola oil onto your rimmed baking sheet, making sure to coat the center in a thick, shimmering layer for an irresistibly “fried” effect without the extra mess. No need to oil the very edges, as you’ll want the tenders nestled right in the middle for maximum sizzle.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken tenders dry (for better browning), then sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Roll up your sleeves and gently rub in the seasoning so every piece is covered—this little step makes a big difference in every satisfying bite.

Step 3: Ready the Breading Stations

In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs with a bit more salt and pepper. Pour the flour into a separate bowl. Give yourself enough room to dunk, dredge, and repeat—you’re creating a breading assembly line for ultimate crunch.

Step 4: Double Dip for Maximum Crunch

Take each chicken tender for a double dip: dunk in the egg mixture, then dredge in flour, shake off the extra, and repeat for a second coat of egg and flour. This step is the game-changer, building up the thick, craggy coating that bakes up beautifully crisp.

Step 5: Coat in Oil & Bake

Lay each breaded chicken strip onto your oiled baking sheet, pressing to coat and then flip so both sides glisten with oil. This touch ensures every angle crisps up in the hot oven. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each tender with a spatula (so you don’t lose that precious crust), and bake for another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Give those Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders a final sprinkle of salt and pepper as soon as they come out, then dig in while hot! They’re spectacular dunked in ketchup, ranch, or even a zesty avocado sauce.

How to Serve Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

These tenders are mouthwatering straight from the oven, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a snip of fresh parsley, or even a little grated parmesan can really amp up the flavor and visual pop—especially if you’re serving them for a crowd or party platter.

Side Dishes

Pair your Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders with crunchy coleslaw, roasted sweet potatoes, or classic oven fries. A crisp green salad or a platter of juicy watermelon makes it a meal everyone will love—even on hot summer nights.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your tenders on a wooden board with dipping sauces for a game day spread, tuck them into a wrap with crisp lettuce and tomato for a quick sandwich, or slice and toss over a big salad for an easy crowd-pleasing dinner. Kids and adults alike can’t resist them sliced atop mac and cheese, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover chicken tenders into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. They’re still great cold for lunchboxes or sliced over salads and reheat beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze these Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders after baking! Let them cool, lay out on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when you need a quick, crunchy fix.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat tenders in a 375°F oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until hot and re-crisped on the outside. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the coating is at its prime when warmed in the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something endlessly comforting about homemade chicken tenders, and this recipe for Three-Ingredient Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders truly hits all the right notes—simple, craveable, and ready in a flash. I hope you’ll add it to your repertoire and make it again and again for easy, crowd-pleasing meals. Happy cooking!

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