1. Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack (placing the chicken on a rack helps ensure even crispiness).

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: Add the flour.
• Bowl 2: Whisk together the eggs and water (or milk).
• Bowl 3: Combine the panko breadcrumbs, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

2. Prepare the Chicken

If using whole chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1 inch wide to create tenders. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to help the breading stick better.

3. Bread the Chicken Tenders

Working one at a time, dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it completely. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Repeat with the remaining chicken tenders.

For extra crispiness, lightly drizzle or spray the breaded chicken with olive oil or melted butter. This step is crucial for achieving a golden, crunchy coating in the oven.

4. Bake the Chicken Tenders

Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crispy and golden brown.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.