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Chicken tenders have long been a beloved comfort food, cherished for their juicy texture and delightful taste. This recipe takes the classic dish to new heights by incorporating the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries, offering a unique twist that is both delicious and nutritious. The addition of cranberries not only enhances the taste but also packs a punch of health benefits, making this dish a great choice for families looking to enjoy something special.

Crispy Baked Cranberry Chicken Tenders

Deliciously crispy chicken tenders baked with a sweet cranberry sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1.0 lb chicken tenders
  • 1.0 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1.0 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1.0 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1.0 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1.0 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2.0 large eggs
  • 1.0 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.0 none fresh parsley for garnishing

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: If using fresh cranberries, place them in a saucepan with 0.25 cup water and 2 tablespoons of sugar (to taste) over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Allow it to cool. If using canned cranberry sauce, skip this step.
  • Set Up the Breading Station: In a shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the Chicken Tenders: Take each chicken tender and first coat it in flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the chicken tenders with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
  • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve with Cranberry Sauce: Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with the cranberry sauce as a dipping sauce on the side.
  • Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy your delicious, crispy baked cranberry chicken tenders!

Notes

Can use either fresh cranberries or canned cranberry sauce.
Keyword baked, chicken, cranberry, tenders