Chicken tenders are a favorite for many-crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for a quick meal or snack. Cooking chicken tenders in the oven is an easy, healthier alternative to frying, and it yields fantastic results. If you’re wondering how to cook chicken tenders in the oven, this friendly, step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make perfectly baked chicken tenders every time.
Why Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders?
Baking chicken tenders in the oven is simple and requires less oil than frying, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or texture. Plus, the oven does most of the work, so you can focus on preparing sides or sauces while your chicken cooks to golden perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 pound chicken tenders (or tenderloins)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or your favorite herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps create a crispy outside while keeping the inside juicy.
2. Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
3. Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place the chicken tenders on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow even cooking. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and rub it in to coat evenly. Then sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken, making sure each piece is well covered.
4. Bake the Chicken
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Halfway through cooking (around 10 minutes), flip the tenders to ensure both sides get crispy and golden brown. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest Before Serving
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders
– Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking, check the internal temperature. 165°F (74°C) is the safe temperature for chicken.
– Space the Tenders: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Proper spacing lets heat circulate and crisps up the tenders evenly.
– Try a Cooling Rack: Placing tenders on a wire rack over the baking sheet helps air circulate all around the chicken, making it crispier.
– Add a Crunchy Coating: For extra crunch, coat the tenders in seasoned breadcrumbs after dipping in egg wash. Spray lightly with cooking spray before baking for a golden crust.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you master the basic oven-baked chicken tenders, you can experiment with different flavors to keep things exciting:
– Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
– Honey Mustard: Brush with a honey mustard glaze before baking.
– Parmesan-Crusted: Mix Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.
– Herb-Infused: Add dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley to the seasoning mix.
– Spicy Sriracha: Mix sriracha into your olive oil drizzle for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a snack with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce. They also make a great protein addition to salads, wraps, or sandwiches. Pair them with fries, steamed veggies, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Oven-baking chicken tenders is a straightforward and healthier way to enjoy this beloved dish. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have delicious, crispy chicken tenders ready in under 30 minutes. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the juicy, flavorful results!