Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy, golden crust that’s bursting with flavor. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist sneaking a piece or two before dinner even starts!
I remember the first time I made these Oven Baked Chicken Tenders for my family. We had just finished a long Saturday of chaos—running errands and managing toddler meltdowns. As I pulled the tenders from the oven, the kids rushed into the kitchen, their eyes wide with anticipation. “Are those for us?” they exclaimed as if they were about to be served gold nuggets. Little did they know, this dish would become our go-to comfort food for busy weeknights and special occasions alike!
Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- This incredible Oven Baked Chicken Tenders transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Oven Baked Chicken Tenders:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an extra-crunchy texture that regular breadcrumbs simply can’t match.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds depth and flavor that elevates each bite.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick; it complements the chicken perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in this dish.
- Eggs: They help bind everything together and create a crispy coating when baked.
For the Sauce:
- Ketchup: Use classic ketchup as a base—it’s sweet and tangy, making it universally loved.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of ketchup.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Oven Baked Chicken Tenders:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Coating
In one bowl, whisk together two eggs until well beaten. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well so that every breadcrumb gets its fair share of flavor.
Step 3: Coat Your Chicken
Cut the boneless chicken breasts into strips. Dip each strip into the egg mixture first, allowing excess egg to drip off before rolling them in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 4: Bake It Up
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure there’s enough space between them for even cooking and crispiness! Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Create Your Dipping Sauce
While your chicken is baking, whisk together ketchup and honey in a small bowl until smooth. This sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with your crispy tenders.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your perfectly baked chicken tenders to plates. Drizzle them with your homemade dipping sauce or serve it on the side for an interactive dining experience!
There you have it—delicious Oven Baked Chicken Tenders ready to be devoured by you and yours! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend gathering, these tenders will surely steal the spotlight at any meal!
You Must Know About Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- This showstopping Oven Baked Chicken Tenders delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Coat the chicken tenders in your preferred seasoning mix before baking them while simultaneously prepping any sides. This way, everything comes together seamlessly.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings! Swap out the traditional breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes for an extra crunch, or try adding a hint of garlic powder or paprika to kick up the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Oven Baked Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- This professional-quality Oven Baked Chicken Tenders relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made these Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, my friends devoured them so quickly that I barely managed to snag one for myself. Their laughter and compliments turned my kitchen into a five-star restaurant!
FAQs
What are Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. They consist of marinated chicken strips coated in seasoned breadcrumbs or a gluten-free option, then baked until golden and crispy. This cooking method significantly reduces the amount of oil used, making them lower in calories while still delivering on flavor and crunch. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a tasty snack, these tenders are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
How do I make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders crispy?
To achieve crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, start by ensuring the chicken is well-coated with your breadcrumb mixture. You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Another tip is to spray a light layer of cooking oil on the tenders before baking. This encourages browning and crispiness without frying. Baking at a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C), also helps develop that desirable crispy exterior while keeping the insides juicy.
Can I prepare Oven Baked Chicken Tenders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Oven Baked Chicken Tenders in advance! To do this, bread the chicken strips and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. This allows for easy meal prep while ensuring that you have a delicious dish ready when you need it.
What sides pair well with Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic options include crispy French fries or a fresh garden salad for a lighter touch. You might also enjoy pairing them with coleslaw or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. For dipping sauces, consider honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing to enhance the flavors of your chicken tenders.
Conclusion
In summary, Oven Baked Chicken Tenders offer a healthier yet satisfying alternative to fried chicken tenders without sacrificing flavor or crunch. By utilizing simple ingredients and effective cooking techniques, you can create this beloved dish quickly and easily at home. Whether enjoyed as a main course or snack, these tenders will surely become a favorite in your household. Try making Oven Baked Chicken Tenders today for a delightful meal everyone will love!
Print
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and easy to make at home. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, they’re a healthier alternative to fried chicken—perfect for family meals or dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Lightly spray tops with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
