Toaster Oven Crispy Chicken Tenders
These toaster oven crispy chicken tenders are a quick and delicious meal option, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a crunchy coating and juicy interior, they're sure to become a family favorite.
Why This Works in a Toaster Oven
Toaster ovens are great for making chicken tenders because they provide even heat and a crispy finish without needing a full-size oven.
Toaster Oven Setup
- Temperature: 400°F (205°C)
- Setting: Bake
- Convection: Yes
- Rack Position: Middle
- Pan Size: 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm)
- Batch Size: 6 tenders
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Rotate Pan: Yes, halfway through
- Ready When: The coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
💡 No convection setting? No problem — keep the same temperature, add about 2–3 extra minutes, and rotate the pan once partway through so everything cooks evenly.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 6 chicken tenders (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) water
- 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
Equipment
- Toaster oven
- 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your toaster oven to 400°F on the Bake setting with convection on.
- Line a 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
- Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking tray.
- Bake in the preheated toaster oven for 15-18 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a cooling rack for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy every crunchy bite of these deliciously easy chicken tenders!
How to Know It's Ready
The coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Troubleshooting
- If the coating browns too quickly, lower the temperature to 375°F.
- Ensure tenders are not touching on the tray to allow even cooking.
- If using a smaller toaster oven, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil before baking.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Variations
- Add 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese to the panko for extra flavor.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs instead of panko for a different taste.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Replace chicken tenders with turkey tenders for a leaner option.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but thaw them completely before coating and baking for even cooking.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs as substitutes.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the chicken tenders and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking.
What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?
Try serving with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for dipping.