Easy Baked Chicken Fingers
If you’re looking for a healthier twist on a classic comfort food, these easy baked chicken fingers are the perfect answer. They deliver that irresistible golden crunch you’d expect from fried chicken tenders without all the excess oil. With a simple wet coating and a crispy breadcrumb breading, these chicken fingers are an ideal weeknight meal that’s quick, family-friendly, and absolutely delicious.
Whether you’re serving them as a kid-approved dinner, a fun appetizer for guests, or a satisfying main course, this recipe guarantees maximum crispiness with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these crunchy easy baked chicken fingers at home:
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
For the Wet Coating
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Crispy Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For Baking
- Cooking spray, as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven & Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease or line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Coating
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and all-purpose flour until smooth. This mixture helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and gives each tender a juicy, flavorful base.
3. Season the Breadcrumbs
In a separate shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Using tongs, dip each tender into the wet mixture, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place each coated tender on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Add a Crispy Boost
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This step helps achieve that golden, crunchy finish in the oven.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
7. Serve & Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
About the Recipe
Why You’ll Love These Easy Baked Chicken Fingers
Unlike deep-fried versions, these easy baked chicken fingers are healthier and lighter, yet still incredibly crispy. They’re quick to make (ready in about 25 minutes) and perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something simple but satisfying.
A Healthier Alternative
By baking instead of frying, you cut down on oil and calories without sacrificing texture. The cooking spray ensures a crunchy outer layer, while the wet coating locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Air Fryer Method: For an even crispier result, cook them in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–14 minutes.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip patting the chicken dry—this helps the coating stick better.
- Spray the chicken generously with cooking spray before baking for that fried-like crisp.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so air can circulate for even crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken fingers pair wonderfully with:
- A side of oven-baked fries or sweet potato wedges
- Fresh salads for a lighter meal
- Mac and cheese for a comfort-food feast
- A dipping sauce trio—ranch, honey mustard, and spicy sriracha mayo
Nutrition Insights
Each serving of these easy baked chicken fingers is approximately 359 calories and provides a balance of lean protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Since they’re baked, they’re significantly lighter than traditional fried versions, making them a great option for families aiming for healthier meals.
Conclusion
These easy baked chicken fingers prove that healthy doesn’t mean boring. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, they’re a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Perfect for kids, parties, or busy weeknight dinners, these chicken tenders are as versatile as they are delicious.
Next time you’re craving comfort food without the guilt, give this recipe a try—and don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love a good crispy chicken dish.
