Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Panko)

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400F, with rack on lower middle position. Line a large baking sheet with foil and generously grease the foil. Add panko breadcrumbs in a single layer on greased foil; spray oil over the top of the panko. Brown panko for 4 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Toasting the panko is the secret to the crunch. Let cool while you continue with recipe.

Step 2

Meanwhile, increase oven temp to 450F, keeping rack on lower middle position. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry chicken tenderloins. Set chicken aside. In a shallow pan (I use pie pans) combine toasted panko with oregano, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir to combine well. In a separate shallow pan, combine the egg with 1 TB water, whisking to incorporate.

Step 3

Replace the foil on large baking sheet and place a wire rack over it. Generously grease the rack. Dip a chicken tenderloin into the egg mixture, coating well and letting excess drip off. Coat generously with panko mixture. Place on greased wire rack. Repeat with remaining chicken tenderloins, leaving at least an inch of space between each one on the rack.

Step 4

Spray tops of chicken tenders with oil. Bake 11-13 minutes or until chicken genders are just cooked and the coating is nicely browned (actual bake time depends on thickness of chicken and your oven.) Serve immediately while fresh from the oven, with dipping sauces of your choice.