One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch

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As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a comforting dish that embodies the season. Enter One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch—a delightful fusion of juicy chicken, warm spices, and a satisfying crunch that will leave your taste buds rejoicing.

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Introduction

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a comforting dish that embodies the season. Enter One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch—a delightful fusion of juicy chicken, warm spices, and a satisfying crunch that will leave your taste buds rejoicing.

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These chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare but also bring the cozy essence of pumpkin spice to the dinner table. Coated in a blend of fragrant spices, each tender boasts a golden-brown exterior that promises a satisfying crunch, while the juicy interior ensures a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an autumn gathering, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

What’s even better? The one-pan cooking method makes for quick clean-up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen. So, grab your favorite apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that captures the spirit of the season!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (ideally panko for added crispness)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp pumpkin spice mixture
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for drizzling)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients for One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch

Instructions

    1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper for hassle-free cleanup.
    1. In a mixing bowl, blend together the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice mixture, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
    1. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This will provide your tenders with that delightful crunch.
    1. Take each chicken tender and dip it into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring it is completely covered. After that, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to ensure the crumbs adhere properly.
    1. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, then drizzle with olive oil to help achieve that ideal golden-brown appearance.
    1. Bake in the heated oven for around 20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the tenders have reached a crispy state.
    1. After baking, take them out of the oven and drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that enhances the spices.
    1. If desired, add fresh parsley as a garnish, and serve warm. Savor your cozy, delicious meal!
  9. Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 35 min | Servings: 4

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a comforting dish that embodies the season. Enter <strong>One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch</strong>—a delightful fusion of juicy chicken, warm spices, and a satisfying crunch that will leave your taste buds rejoicing.” /></p> <h2>Key Ingredients</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Chicken Tenders</strong>: 1 pound of fresh or frozen chicken tenders, thawed.</li> <li><strong>Pumpkin Puree</strong>: 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin puree for a warm, spiced flavor.</li> <li><strong>Pumpkin Spice Blend</strong>: 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice seasoning (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves).</li> <li><strong>Garlic Powder</strong>: 1 teaspoon for an extra depth of flavor.</li> <li><strong>Salt and Pepper</strong>: To taste for seasoning.</li> <li><strong>Breadcrumbs</strong>: 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for that signature crispy crunch.</li> <li><strong>Parmesan Cheese</strong>: 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.</li> <li><strong>Egg</strong>: 1 large egg for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken tenders.</li> <li><strong>Olive Oil</strong>: 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help with browning and flavor.</li> <li><strong>Fresh Herbs (optional)</strong>: Chopped parsley or thyme for garnish. </li> </ul> <p>Feel free to customize the spices and herbs to suit your taste!</p> <h2>Baking Process</h2> <ol> <li> <p><strong>Preheat the Oven</strong>: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly and develop that perfect crispy crust.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Prepare the Pan</strong>: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Coat the Chicken</strong>: Take your chicken tenders and season them with salt, pepper, and a generous amount of pumpkin spice seasoning. Make sure to coat each piece evenly for maximum flavor. </p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Create a Breading Station</strong>: In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, place all-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt. In the second bowl, whisk together some eggs until they are frothy. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, a bit of grated Parmesan cheese (if desired), and an extra sprinkle of pumpkin spice for added flavor.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Bread the Chicken Tenders</strong>: Dip each seasoned chicken tender into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dunk it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess egg to drip off before transferring it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently on the breadcrumbs to ensure a good coating, then place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Drizzle with Oil</strong>: For that crispy finish, lightly drizzle or spray the top of the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps them achieve a golden-brown crunch while baking.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Bake</strong>: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides get equally crispy.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Check for Doneness</strong>: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken tenders reaches 165°F (75°C). If they need a little more time, continue baking for an additional 3-5 minutes.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Rest and Serve</strong>: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps them tender. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal or snack!</p> </li> </ol> <p>Enjoy your One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch!</p> <h2>Serving Suggestions</h2> <p>These One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and complement the fall-inspired flavors:</p> <ol> <li> <p><strong>Autumn Salad</strong>: Serve the chicken tenders over a bed of mixed greens with sliced apples, candied pecans, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with a maple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Roasted Vegetables</strong>: Pair the tenders with roasted seasonal vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash tossed with olive oil and spices. The sweetness will harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin spice.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Mashed Potatoes</strong>: A comforting side of creamy mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile. Consider adding a dollop of pumpkin puree to the mash for extra fall flair.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Rice or Quinoa Bowl</strong>: Create a hearty bowl by serving the chicken tenders over a base of fluffy rice or quinoa. Add some sautéed kale or spinach and top with pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Dipping Sauces</strong>: Offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as honey mustard, ranch, or a maple syrup-infused yogurt dip. These will add flavor dimensions and cater to different palates.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Wrap It Up</strong>: For a fun twist, slice the chicken tenders and wrap them in a whole-grain tortilla with fresh spinach, avocado, and a smear of cream cheese or hummus.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Family Style</strong>: Serve the tenders on a large platter with a selection of dipping sauces, along with fresh veggies and a bowl of your favorite dip. Let everyone create their own delicious bites!</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Cozy Sandwich</strong>: Transform the chicken tenders into a hearty sandwich. Use a warm baguette or slider rolls, add fresh arugula, sliced tomatoes, and a smear of cranberry sauce or apple chutney for a delightful crunch.</p> </li> </ol> <p>No matter how you choose to serve your One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders, they are sure to bring warmth and flavor to your fall table. Enjoy!</p> <h2>Conclusion</h2> <p>Indulging in One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders provides a delightful twist to your ordinary weeknight dinner. The unique combination of warm spices and savory chicken creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for embracing the flavors of fall. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but the one-pan method ensures minimal cleanup, allowing you to savor every bite without the hassle. </p> <p>Whether you’re serving it up for a family meal or impressing guests at a fall gathering, these crispy chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or a refreshing side salad for a complete meal. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary creativity, and enjoy this deliciously spiced dish that’s bound to become a seasonal favorite! Happy cooking!</p> <div id=

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a comforting dish that embodies the season. Enter One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch—a delightful fusion of juicy chicken, warm spices, and a satisfying crunch that will leave your taste buds rejoicing.

One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders with a Crispy Crunch

Embrace the flavors of fall with these One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tenders! This delicious recipe combines juicy chicken, warm pumpkin spices, and a crispy breadcrumb coating for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or autumn gathering, these tenders are easy to prepare and require just one pan for quick cleanup. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness and serve with your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love. Enjoy this seasonal favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (ideally panko for added crispness)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp pumpkin spice mixture

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for drizzling)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper for hassle-free cleanup.

    In a mixing bowl, blend together the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice mixture, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.

      In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This will provide your tenders with that delightful crunch.

        Take each chicken tender and dip it into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring it is completely covered. After that, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to ensure the crumbs adhere properly.

          Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, then drizzle with olive oil to help achieve that ideal golden-brown appearance.

            Bake in the heated oven for around 20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the tenders have reached a crispy state.

              After baking, take them out of the oven and drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that enhances the spices.

                If desired, add fresh parsley as a garnish, and serve warm. Savor your cozy, delicious meal!

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 35 min | Servings: 4

                    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?