If you’re looking for a healthier, delicious alternative to fried chicken, baked chicken tenders are the way to go. Not only are they crispy and flavorful, but they’re also easy to make, making them perfect for family meals, snacks, or meal prepping. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or serving a crowd, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the best oven-baked chicken tenders, from a simple recipe to serving ideas, storage tips, and more.

Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

This easy recipe for baked chicken tenders delivers a crispy, golden crust with tender, juicy chicken on the inside. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil (or a beaten egg for coating)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow bowl, pour the olive oil or beat an egg.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the olive oil or egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
5. Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Creative Ways to Serve Baked Chicken Tenders

While chicken tenders are delicious on their own, you can get creative and serve them in various ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Wraps or Sandwiches: Add tenders to wraps or sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of condiments like mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce.
• Salads: Slice up the tenders and top a fresh salad with them for an easy, protein-packed meal.
• Tacos or Burritos: Use tenders as a filling in tacos or burritos, adding beans, salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Pasta: Toss the tenders with pasta and a simple marinara or Alfredo sauce for a hearty meal.
• Stir-Fry: Slice the tenders and toss them with stir-fried veggies and your favorite sauce for a quick, healthy dinner.

Baked Chicken Tenders Without Breading

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can skip the breading entirely. This method still results in flavorful, tender chicken but with fewer calories.

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenders
• Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, oregano
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss the chicken tenders in olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and oregano.
3. Place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Dipping Sauces and Glazes

No chicken tender is complete without a great dipping sauce! Here are some classic and creative options:

• Classic Dipping Sauces: Ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch are all great options.
• Glazes: Brush your tenders with honey, balsamic reduction, or a spicy glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken tenders? No problem! Here’s how to store them properly:

• Allow the tenders to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• When ready to reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to regain their crispy texture.

FAQs About Baked Chicken Tenders

How Many Calories Are in Baked Chicken Tenders? 

A typical serving of baked chicken tenders (about 3 tenders) contains around 351 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the size of the tenders.

What Temperature Should Chicken Tenders Be Baked At? 

The best temperature for baking chicken tenders is 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures a crispy outer layer while keeping the chicken juicy. Always check that the internal temperature of the tenders has reached 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked.

What Sides Go Well with Baked Chicken Tenders? 

Baked chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including:

• Sweet Potato Fries for a healthier twist on classic fries.
• Avocado Corn Salad for a refreshing, light option.
• Oven-Roasted Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Quinoa Apple Salad for a grain-based, nutrient-packed side.
• Fresh Coleslaw for a crunchy and creamy complement to the tenders.

How Do You Keep Chicken Tenderloins from Drying Out? 

To prevent your chicken tenders from drying out, marinate them before cooking. A good marinade will lock in moisture and add flavor. You can use a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, or experiment with different marinades to suit your taste.

Whether you’re serving them on their own, adding them to a wrap, or tossing them in a salad, baked chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite. And with endless possibilities for dipping sauces, glazes, and side dishes, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again. Try it today for a delicious, guilt-free meal the whole family will enjoy!