Cheesy Chicken Tenders (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 pounds chicken tenders.
02 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour.
03 - 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika.
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder.
05 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
07 - 3 eggs.
08 - 2 tablespoons milk.
09 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs.
10 - 1 cup sharp cheddar, freshly shredded.
11 - 1/2 cup parmesan, freshly grated.
12 - Additional kosher salt for chicken.
13 - Cooking spray.

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to exactly 400°F and prepare baking sheet by lining with foil and placing rack on top if using.
02 - Spray rack or foil thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking process.
03 - Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper thoroughly in first shallow dish.
04 - Whisk eggs and milk together completely in second shallow dish until fully combined.
05 - Combine panko breadcrumbs with both freshly shredded cheeses in third shallow dish.
06 - Season raw chicken tenders generously with kosher salt on all sides before beginning coating process.
07 - Dredge each tender in seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess coating.
08 - Dip floured tender in egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off completely.
09 - Press tender firmly into cheese-panko mixture, ensuring even coating on all sides.
10 - Place breaded tenders on prepared baking sheet or rack, leaving small space between each piece.
11 - Continue breading process using one hand for dry ingredients and one for wet to prevent clumping.
12 - Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until coating becomes golden brown.
13 - If using baking sheet without rack, flip tenders halfway through cooking time.
14 - Optional: broil briefly at end of cooking for extra browning if desired.
15 - Serve immediately while hot and crispy with preferred dipping sauce.

# Notes:

01 - Kid friendly.
02 - Baked not fried.
03 - Double cheese coating.
04 - Crispy texture.