I started making gluten free chicken tenders after realizing most store-bought versions either tasted bland or had that weird dry texture that makes you immediately regret buying them. Homemade ended up being way better, and honestly most people can’t even tell they’re gluten free once they try them.
The outside gets crispy and golden while the chicken inside stays juicy, which is really all I want from a chicken tender. I’ve made these for quick dinners, game nights, and even meal prep because they reheat surprisingly well. If you already like recipes like Homemade Chicken Tenders, Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders, or Baked Cheesy Quesadilla, these gluten free chicken tenders fit perfectly into that same easy comfort food rotation.
Why You Will Love These Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
What I love most about these chicken tenders is that they still get crispy without regular flour or breadcrumbs. The coating actually sticks well and doesn’t fall apart halfway through eating them.
They’re also really easy to make with simple ingredients you can find pretty much anywhere now.
Another thing I like is that they work for both kids and adults without feeling like a “special diet” recipe. They just taste like good homemade chicken tenders.
You can also bake or air fry them depending on what you prefer, which makes the recipe even easier for busy days.
What You Will Need For Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
A large baking sheet works best if you’re baking the tenders because it gives them enough room to crisp properly.
You’ll also need a few shallow bowls for coating the chicken without creating a giant mess on the counter.
A pair of kitchen tongs helps move the chicken around while keeping the coating intact.
If you want extra crispiness, a wire rack placed over the baking tray helps air circulate underneath the chicken while baking.
Ingredients Needed
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup gluten free flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1½ cups gluten free breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Add gluten free flour to one bowl.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
In a third bowl, combine gluten free breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Dip each chicken tender into the flour first, then the egg mixture, and finally coat well in the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil.
Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.
Let them cool slightly before serving.
I usually serve these with fries, salad, or whatever dipping sauce I already have in the fridge. They also pair really well with Chicken Caesar Salad, Pizza Bagels, or even Strawberry Lemonade if you want something fresh on the side.
Tips For Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Press the breadcrumb coating onto the chicken slightly so it sticks better while baking.
Different gluten free breadcrumb brands can brown differently, so keep an eye on the tenders near the end of baking.
If you want extra crispy tenders, place them on a wire rack instead of directly on the tray.
Air frying also works really well for this recipe if you want even crispier edges.
Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Description
I started making gluten free chicken tenders after realizing most store-bought versions either tasted bland or had that weird dry texture that makes you immediately regret buying them. Homemade ended up being way better, and honestly most people can’t even tell they’re gluten free once they try them.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
-
Add gluten free flour to one bowl.
-
In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
-
In a third bowl, combine gluten free breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
-
Dip each chicken tender into the flour first, then the egg mixture, and finally coat well in the breadcrumb mixture.
-
Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet.
-
Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil.
-
Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.
-
Let them cool slightly before serving.
-
I usually serve these with fries, salad, or whatever dipping sauce I already have in the fridge. They also pair really well with Chicken Caesar Salad, Pizza Bagels, or even Strawberry Lemonade if you want something fresh on the side.
