Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and, if desired, place a wire rack on top. Lightly spray the rack (if using) or parchment paper with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare your dredging station. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well. In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In a third shallow dish, place the Panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, mixing to combine.
Step 3: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Dredge each tenderloin first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the whisked eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, thoroughly coat it in the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to create your crispy homemade baked chicken tenders recipe.
Step 4: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack), ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil for extra crispness and golden color.
Step 5: Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C). The cooking time for this crispy homemade baked chicken tenders recipe may vary slightly based on thickness of tenders.
Step 6: Remove the crispy homemade baked chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy inside.