Oven Baked Chicken Tenders have become my go-to dish for a quick and delicious meal. These tenders are not only healthy but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and parties. I love how easy they are to prepare, and they always come out crispy and satisfying. Let’s dive into this baked chicken tenders recipe that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

These oven-baked chicken strips are a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, they are healthy oven-baked chicken tenders made without breading, making them lower in calories while still being flavorful. They are versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Quick to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, kids love them, making them the best oven-baked chicken tenders for kids. You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste, and they can be made gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions. Lastly, I appreciate that they are low-carb, fitting well into many diets.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Gather these items:

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
• 1 Tablespoon paprika spice blend
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Step 2: If desired, remove the tendon from the chicken tenders and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Step 3: Drizzle olive oil on the tenders and sprinkle the spice blend, lemon pepper, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Step 4: Arrange chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Step 5: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Step 6: Let the chicken tenders rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
7. Step 7: Enjoy as a healthy snack or with your favorite dipping sauces.

Pro Tips for the Best Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Keep these in mind:

• Marinating the chicken tenders enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
• If you prefer a crispy texture, consider using a wire rack on the baking sheet.

Best Ways to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

There are endless ways to enjoy these tenders! Serve them with baked chicken tenders with dipping sauce like honey mustard or BBQ for a classic touch. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal or enjoy them as a quick snack. For kids, serve them alongside carrot sticks and ranch dressing for an easy and appealing dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This method helps keep them crispy, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

What’s the secret to perfect Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and ensures your tenders are juicy. Also, using the right cooking temperature and time is crucial to prevent them from turning soggy.

Can I make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken tenders the night before and bake them right before serving. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner, especially when you need to serve something fast and delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?

To prevent sogginess, ensure the chicken is patted dry before adding oil and seasonings. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can cause steaming instead of baking. Following the baking time closely is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

Variations of Oven Baked Chicken Tenders You Can Try

There are many ways to customize these tenders! Try adding different spices like cayenne for a spicy oven-baked chicken tenders recipe or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating. You can also experiment with marinades like teriyaki or garlic herb for a unique twist. These variations can cater to different diets, making them suitable for everyone.

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. If you’re interested in healthy options, you might enjoy Veggie Burgers with Avocado Green Harissa.

For additional tips on chicken preparation, you can visit Food Safety for guidelines on safe cooking temperatures.

Oven Baked Chicken Tenders: 7 Secrets for Crispy Flavor

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Healthy and delicious oven-baked chicken tenders without the breading, packed with flavor.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
• 1 Tablespoon paprika spice blend
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. If desired, remove the tendon from the chicken tenders and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Drizzle olive oil on the tenders and sprinkle the spice blend, lemon pepper, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Arrange chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken tenders rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
7. Enjoy as a healthy snack or with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg