Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

In our house, there’s something magical about a comforting plate of Oven Baked Chicken Tenders. Every time the enticing aroma wafts through the kitchen, it triggers a wave of nostalgia for family dinners and cozy evenings at home. The delightful crunch on the outside, paired with tender, juicy chicken in the middle, makes it a favorite for kids and adults alike. I remember the first time I decided to make this dish; I wanted something simple yet satisfying, and boy, did it hit the mark! As the chicken tenders baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement, knowing that soon we’d be enjoying a delicious, homemade meal together. With no breading involved, this version is lighter but still packed with flavor. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together effortlessly.

What You’ll Need for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Cooking is all about using quality ingredients, and for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken tenderloins, which are naturally juicy and tender. We’ll enhance their flavor with olive oil and a blend of spices, each contributing its unique character to the dish. Together, these ingredients create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

• 2½ pounds chicken tenderloins: The ideal choice for tenderness; these will be the main attraction of your dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps in moistening the chicken and aids in the seasoning sticking nicely.
• 1 tablespoon chicken base: Adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and a vibrant color to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a wonderful aroma and flavor that complements the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and sweetness to the seasoning mix.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a bit of heat.
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley: A fresh garnish that brightens up the dish.

Instructions for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Getting your Oven Baked Chicken Tenders perfectly crispy and juicy is all about following the steps closely. Trust me, once you’ve done it once, you’ll want to make them again and again! Let’s dive into this easy and fun process.

1. Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). This is an essential step to ensure that your chicken tenders cook evenly and become deliciously crispy.
2. Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and place the chicken tenderloins inside. Pour 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and the chicken base over the top. Toss the chicken gently to coat them evenly, ensuring each piece is covered in that flavorful oil and base.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme. This spice mix is key to elevating the taste of your chicken tenders.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the coated chicken and toss them again until they’re evenly coated. You want every inch of the tenderloins to have that beautiful seasoning.
5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for a golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165˚F.
6. Once the chicken tenders are cooked through, remove them from the oven and allow them to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it helps to keep the juices locked inside.
7. Finally, toss the cooked chicken with the freshly chopped parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness to the dish.

How to Switch It Up

There are so many ways to make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders your own! Whether you’re looking to spice things up or keep it classic, here are some fun ideas to consider.

• Try Different Proteins: If you want to switch things up, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even turkey tenderloins.
• Experiment with Breading: If you prefer a bit of crunch, lightly coat your chicken with breadcrumbs or panko before baking.
• Add Some Heat: For a spicy twist, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
• Flavor Infusions: Marinate the chicken in your favorite sauce before coating it with the spice mix for an extra flavor kick.
• Veggie Sides: Pair the chicken tenders with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
• Make a Dip: Serve with a tasty dip, like honey mustard or a zesty ranch, for added flavor.
• Storage: To store leftovers, separate into meal-sized portions and place them in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: These chicken tenders freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then store in a freezer bag, labeling and dating it for clarity.

What to Pair With Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

When it comes to serving Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, the options are endless! Here are some delicious ideas to complement this dish:

• Classic French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit. Serve them on the side for a true comfort food experience.
• Fresh Salads: A light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, adding a delightful texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies are a fantastic choice. They add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Sandwich Option: Slice the cooked chicken tenders and serve them in a bun with your favorite toppings for a hearty sandwich.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These tenders are great for parties or family gatherings; serve them on a platter with various dips.
• Lunch or Dinner: Whether it’s a cozy lunch or a satisfying dinner, Oven Baked Chicken Tenders fit any meal occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a fantastic dish that combines flavor, healthiness, and simplicity. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up a meal that everyone loves. Enjoy the delicious, crispy goodness that this recipe brings to your table!

Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

The ultimate comfort food, Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and easy to make. This no-breading approach keeps it healthy while delivering all the deliciousness you crave. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, you won’t want to miss out on this recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 340

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2½ pounds chicken tenderloins
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chicken base
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). This is an essential step to ensure that your chicken tenders cook evenly and become deliciously crispy.
2. Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and place the chicken tenderloins inside. Pour 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and the chicken base over the top. Toss the chicken gently to coat them evenly, ensuring each piece is covered in that flavorful oil and base.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme. This spice mix is key to elevating the taste of your chicken tenders.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the coated chicken and toss them again until they’re evenly coated. You want every inch of the tenderloins to have that beautiful seasoning.
5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for a golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165˚F.
6. Once the chicken tenders are cooked through, remove them from the oven and allow them to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it helps to keep the juices locked inside.
7. Finally, toss the cooked chicken with the freshly chopped parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness to the dish.

Notes

• Chicken tenders: Chicken strips work, or you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Note that larger cuts of chicken will take longer to cook.
• Seasonings: Mix or match any seasonings you like.
• How to Store: To save leftovers, separate into meal sized portions and then place in an airtight container and store: in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in the freezer up to 6 months.
• How to Freeze: These chicken tenders freeze well! Allow baked homemade chicken tenders to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• How to Reheat: Chicken tenders can be reheated in the microwave in 30 second increments, or cover with foil and place into the oven until warmed through.
• How to Scale: This recipe is easily scalable. To double the recipe, just double all of the ingredients. However, you will want to use a second baking dish so that the chicken can be spread in a single layer to cook evenly. To cut the recipe in half, just half the quantities and otherwise follow the recipe as written.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.