oven baked chicken tender recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best oven baked chicken tender recipe

Oven baked chicken tender recipe is a classic dish that brings a lot of comfort food nostalgia to my kitchen. Growing up, my mom would make these for us kids and it was always a huge hit. The aroma of the baking chicken would fill the house and everyone would gather around the table to enjoy the tender, juicy chicken.

I remember the crispy golden brown coating and the soft, tender meat inside. It’s a dish that feels like home. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a weekend family gathering.

It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with different seasonings to suit everyone’s tastes. Plus, chicken tenders are a great source of lean protein, making this a healthier option for the family. I love that I can make this dish in the oven.

It’s a healthier alternative to frying and the oven does most of the work. Plus, it’s a great way to cook for a crowd. I can make a big batch and serve them up at family gatherings or potlucks.

Everyone always loves them. Plus, leftover chicken tenders are great for meal prepping. I can use them in salads, sandwiches, or even chop them up for a quick chicken salad.

They are so versatile and delicious. This recipe is a family favorite and I know it will be a hit in your kitchen too.

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

4.7 from 1184 votes

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these oven baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

1 lb chicken tenderloins
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs

For the Breading

2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried basil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 425°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried basil.
4In another shallow dish, whisk together milk and eggs.
5In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried basil.
6Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel.
7Dip each tenderloin into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
8Next, dip the flour-coated tenderloin into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
9Finally, coat the tenderloin in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
10Place the breaded tenderloins on the prepared baking sheet.
11Repeat with remaining tenderloins.
12Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the chicken tenders using tongs.
13Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
14Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
15Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Parchment paper
Whisk
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For extra crispiness, place the breaded chicken in the freezer for 15 minutes before baking.

Oven baked chicken tender recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s a great meal for a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering.

The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

I love serving these chicken tenders with a side of fries, or a salad. You can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.

They are always a crowd-pleaser and a hit with the kids. This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a fun movie night at home.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts are thicker and may take longer to cook through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing from the oven.

2. Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

To make these chicken tenders gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Ensure that your milk and eggs are certified gluten-free as well.

3. Can I bake these chicken tenders at a lower temperature?

Baking at a lower temperature will result in a longer cooking time and may affect the crispiness of the chicken tenders. It is recommended to bake at the specified temperature of 425°F for the best results.

4. Can I freeze the unbaked chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked chicken tenders. After breading the chicken, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

5. Can I use a different type of breading?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of breading. Try using crushed cornflakes, crushed pretzels, or even crushed potato chips for a unique twist. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.

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