Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe

This Chicken Tenders Platter is a real show stopper, perfect for a family feast or a game day spread. It isn’t usually made by pre-toasting the panko breadcrumbs—normally they go on raw—but we’ve toasted them first to guarantee a golden, fried look without the hassle of deep frying. To make the batter extra flavorful, you can whisk a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder into the egg mixture. Not traditional, maybe, but very delicious.

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Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe Ingredients

• The Breadcrumb Coating:
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Oil spray (olive oil or canola)
• The Batter:
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper (to taste)
• The Chicken:
  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast sliced into strips)
  • Oil spray

How To Make Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe

1. Toast the panko: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Spread the panko breadcrumbs on a baking tray in a thin layer. Spray lightly with oil. Bake for 4-5 minutes until they are a light golden color. Watch them closely so they don’t burn. Remove and let cool slightly.
2. Mix the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, flour, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creates a thick, flavorful glue for the crumbs.
3. Coat the chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins into the batter bowl and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated in the wet mixture.
4. Bread the tenders: Take one piece of chicken at a time and drop it into the toasted panko. Press the crumbs firmly onto the chicken with your hand—don’t just roll it around. Pressing ensures a thick, even crust.
5. Arrange for baking: Place the breaded tenders on a baking tray lined with a wire rack (if you have one) or parchment paper. Space them out so they aren’t touching; crowding creates steam. Spray the tops lightly with oil spray.
6. Bake: Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 15 minutes (or up to 20 minutes if the pieces are thick). Because the crumbs are already toasted and the chicken sits on a rack, there is no need to flip them.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot with your favorite dips like honey mustard or ranch.

Recipe Tips

• The Pre-Toast Trick: Toasting the panko beforehand is the secret weapon. Oven-baked chicken often looks pale even when cooked; pre-toasting ensures that deep golden “fried” color and crunch every time.
• The Mayo Factor: Don’t skip the mayo in the batter. The oil in the mayonnaise keeps the lean chicken breast juicy and tender during the high-heat bake, preventing it from drying out.
• Press to Stick: Simply rolling chicken in crumbs creates a patchy coating. You must press the panko into the meat to create a solid shell that won’t fall off when you dip it.
• Rack ‘Em Up: Using a wire rack set over a baking sheet allows hot air to circulate under the chicken, keeping the bottom crispy. If you bake them directly on the tray, the bottom might get slightly soggy.

What To Serve With Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe

This Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that needs fun finger-food sides. A basket of crispy French Fries or Tater Tots is the classic companion. For a healthier crunch, serve them with raw Veggie Sticks (carrots, celery, cucumbers) and extra Ranch Dressing. If you want to turn it into a Southern-style meal, add a side of creamy Coleslaw and some Corn on the Cob. Don’t forget an array of dips—BBQ sauce, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce allow everyone to customize their bite.

How To Store Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container lined with a paper towel (to absorb moisture) for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven at 375°F for 5 minutes to restore the crunch. Do not microwave, or they will be rubbery.
• Freeze: Freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

Chicken Tenders Platter Recipe Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 28g

Nutrition information is estimated per serving.

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