- 1 pound (about 450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken tenders

- 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (check for gluten allergies if necessary)

- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable oil

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the gluten-free breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a seasoned breadcrumb mixture.

3. If the chicken tenders are large, you can cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces to suit individual preferences.

4. Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that it's coated evenly. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken gently to help them adhere.

5. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of vegetable oil. This will help them become crispy during baking.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken tenders are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken tenders, so be sure to check for doneness.

8. Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool.

9. Serve the oven-baked chicken tenders with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a mild ranch dressing.

These oven-baked chicken tenders are gluten-free and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. They provide a familiar and sensory-friendly meal option for individuals with autism. You can also customize the seasonings to suit individual taste preferences.