Easy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders You’ll Love
If you’re craving a dish that’s both crispy and juicy, look no further than these Oven Baked Chicken Tenders. This recipe promises a simple yet flavorful meal that cooks quickly and pleases every craving for homemade comfort food. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these tenders are a fantastic option for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying, healthier twist on classic fried chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Convenient: Oven baking saves time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Healthier Choice: Uses less oil than frying while still maintaining that irresistible crispiness.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfectly sized pieces that kids love to dip and munch on.
- Versatile Flavor: Easily adjusted seasonings to suit any palate or occasion.
- Minimal Cleanup: Baking sheets and simple bowls keep mess to a minimum.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday ingredients, these Oven Baked Chicken Tenders come together effortlessly. Each component plays a key role in delivering the perfect combination of crunch, moisture, and flavor.
- Chicken Tenders: The star of the dish, naturally tender and quick to cook.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch and light texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, savory addition that brings depth to the coating.
- Eggs: Acts as a binding agent, helping the breading stick firmly to the chicken.
- Garlic Powder: Boosts flavor with a subtle aromatic hint.
- Paprika: Gives a smoky, mild warmth and a beautiful color to the crust.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning all layers evenly.
- Olive Oil Spray: Helps crisp the tenders without excess fat.
Variations for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply want to shake things up, here are some delicious ideas to try.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash for a bold flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Herb Infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the breadcrumb mix for a fresh aroma.
- Sweet and Savory: Toss in a pinch of brown sugar with the paprika for a subtle sweetness.
- Parmesan-Free: Omit cheese and add more seasoning like onion powder and smoked paprika instead.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking. Pat your chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In one shallow bowl, whisk together two eggs with a tablespoon of water or milk. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the mixture is evenly blended for consistent flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each tender first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat all sides. For extra crunch, double dip by repeating this step before placing tenders on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange tenders in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to encourage browning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This helps juices redistribute, ensuring every bite stays juicy and tender.
Pro Tips for Making Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- Pat Dry Chicken: Ensures the breading sticks better and crisps up nicely.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They create a lighter, crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Bake in a single layer to allow hot air circulation and even cooking.
- Flip Halfway: Promotes even browning on both sides.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
- Spray with Oil: Adds that golden, crispy finish without excess grease.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of honey mustard or a squeeze of lemon also lifts the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
These tenders pair wonderfully with crispy oven fries, a fresh garden salad, or creamy coleslaw for a balanced meal. Roasted veggies are a great healthy option, too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the tenders stacked on a platter with an array of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or spicy aioli for a fun, interactive meal. Or place them in sliders with crunchy lettuce and pickles for a tasty twist on classic sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat properly to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezing
Freeze tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. This prevents them from sticking together so you can reheat as needed.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness, reheat oven baked chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes instead of the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well and the tenders cook evenly.
How do I make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders extra crispy?
Try double dipping the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs and make sure to spray or brush with oil before baking for enhanced crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. These tenders store well in the fridge and can be reheated quickly, making them perfect for preparing meals ahead of time.
Can I use almond flour or another substitute instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, almond flour or crushed nuts work well for a low-carb option, although the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What dipping sauces go best with Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?
Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavorful dip.
Final Thoughts
These Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are truly one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. With their irresistible crunch and tender inside, plus how easy they are to make and customize, they’re perfect for any occasion. Grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a meal that feels like a special treat any night of the week!
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Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Crispy and juicy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders that are quick to prepare and perfect for a healthier twist on classic fried chicken. These tenders are seasoned with panko, Parmesan, and spices, baked to golden perfection, and ideal for family meals, kid-friendly dinners, or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding & Coating
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water or milk
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs with water or milk. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing evenly.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. For extra crunch, repeat this dipping process once more and then place tenders on the baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove tenders from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.
Notes
- Pat dry chicken tenders to ensure breading sticks well.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier crust.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; bake tenders in a single layer for even cooking.
- Flip tenders halfway through baking for even browning.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to prevent under or overcooking.
- Use olive oil spray for a golden finish without excess grease.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 tenders
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
Keywords: oven baked chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, healthy chicken recipe, kid-friendly chicken, baked chicken nuggets, easy chicken tenders