Crunchy, herby coating that tastes close to KFC but baked — cruelly good for an oven method.
KFC “Oven-Fried” Chicken Tenders
Servings: 4
Preparation: 20m
Cooking: 35m
Skill Level: High-heat bake + spray technique
Ingredients:
1 tsp white pepper,
1 tsp black pepper,
1 tsp paprika,
1 tsp garlic powder,
1 tsp onion powder,
½ tsp dried thyme,
½ tsp dried basil,
½ tsp oregano,
½ tsp celery salt,
½ tsp mustard powder.
Optional pinch MSG if you want the full fast-food vibe.
Cooking Steps:
Marinade: Buttermilk bath 30–60 min with 1 tsp salt + ½ tsp paprika (helps tenderize)
Dredge: Mix flour + cornstarch (50:50) + seasoning. Remove tenders from buttermilk, let excess drip. Coat in flour mix.
Eggwash + Crust: Dip in beaten egg, then press into panko (for maximum oven crisp). Place on wire rack over sheet pan. Spray crust with oil spray liberally.
Bake: Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) convection if you have it. Bake 12–15 min, flip, spray, bake another 6–8 min. Finish under broiler 1–2 min for color. Internal temp 74°C (165°F
Rating
Le Chef Tip
Not a Chef but... Just call him Chef, please!
Don’t crowd; give air under the rack for all-around crisp.