Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight meals with these incredibly easy Baked Chicken Tenders. Forget the fuss of deep-frying or the mess of breading; this recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, irresistibly juicy chicken tenders that are delightfully crispy on the outside, all without a single carb-heavy crumb. Designed to be a lean, high-protein powerhouse, these tenders are ideal for anyone seeking a healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free option for lunch or dinner, proving that healthy eating can also be incredibly delicious and satisfying.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe!
- Uncomplicated Ingredients, Explosive Flavor: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic spices to achieve incredible taste. Our carefully balanced blend of everyday seasonings infuses each tender with profound flavor and ensures a remarkably juicy bite every single time, making healthy eating anything but bland.
- Effortless One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to extensive cleanup and excess oil. Baking these chicken tenders in the oven transforms them into a hands-off masterpiece, cooking to perfection in just about 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate stress-free cooking method, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
- Naturally Breading-Free & Health-Conscious: This recipe proudly skips the breading, making it an excellent choice for a variety of dietary needs. It’s inherently gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with protein, perfectly aligning with paleo, Whole30, and keto lifestyles. Enjoy a wholesome meal without compromising on taste or the satisfying texture you crave.
- Universally Appealing: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or sophisticated palates, these baked chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their approachable flavor and satisfying texture make them a family favorite for kids and adults alike, ensuring no complaints at the dinner table. They’re so good, even the most discerning diners will ask for seconds!
- Incredibly Versatile: Far from being just a main dish, these tenders are exceptionally adaptable. Slice them into vibrant salads, tuck them into healthy wraps, or add them to nourishing grain bowls. Their versatility makes meal prepping a breeze and effortlessly elevates any dish they accompany, offering endless possibilities for creative culinary endeavors.
Table of Contents
- The Magic of Baked Chicken Tenders: Healthy & Flavorful
- Why Baked Tenders Are a Game-Changer for Healthy Meals
- Essential Ingredients for Perfection
- Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders
- Expert Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Tenders
- Pro Tip: Understanding Baking Time
- Flavor Variations & Creative Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Storage and Reheating Made Easy
- Discover More Delicious Baked Chicken Recipes
- Baked Chicken Tenders Full Recipe Card
The Magic of Baked Chicken Tenders: Healthy & Flavorful
While I’ve perfected the art of making air fryer chicken tenders for quick crispiness and savory skillet chicken tenders for a pan-seared touch, these Baked Chicken Tenders truly stand out for their unparalleled simplicity and hands-free convenience. The oven does all the heavy lifting, delivering consistently delicious results with minimal effort on your part. This method removes the need for constant monitoring, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your healthy meal cooks to perfection.
This recipe for no-breading baked chicken tenders is a staple in my kitchen, and for good reason. Not only are they incredibly lean, bursting with flavor, and naturally align with gluten-free, low-carb, and high-protein dietary goals, but they also consistently win over even the pickiest eaters. This makes them an invaluable asset for busy parents and health-conscious individuals alike. Planning a healthy, kid-friendly snack? Serve them plain with a side of their favorite ketchup or a tangy sweet and sour sauce. Craving a light yet satisfying meal for yourself? Easily incorporate these versatile tenders into fresh, vibrant salads, wholesome wraps, or hearty grain bowls, transforming them into a complete and nutritious meal.
One of the most remarkable aspects of oven-baking chicken tenders is achieving that desirable crispy exterior without the need for traditional breadcrumbs. The secret lies in a simple yet effective blend of robust seasonings and the consistent, dry heat of a hot oven. This powerful combination creates a delicate, slightly crisp crust that perfectly encapsulates the tender, juicy meat within. This technique not only keeps the tenders naturally light but also enhances their inherent chicken flavor. Once you experience the delightful texture and robust taste of these breading-free tenders, you’ll find that heavily breaded options—often laden with extra calories and carbs—become a thing of the past. These healthy baked chicken tenders will quickly become your new go-to recipe.
Why Baked Tenders Are a Game-Changer for Healthy Meals
In today’s fast-paced world, finding meals that are both nutritious and quick to prepare is essential. Baked chicken tenders fit this bill perfectly, offering a wealth of benefits that make them an ideal choice for busy weeknights, proactive meal prepping, or simply enjoying a lighter, healthier option. They expertly eliminate the unhealthy fats often associated with frying, all while delivering on flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
- Unrivaled Convenience & Ease: Beyond the minimal 5-minute prep time, the true beauty of baking is its hands-off nature. Simply season, arrange, pop them in the oven, set a timer, and you’re free to tackle other tasks or simply relax. This makes them a perfect last-minute dinner solution or a thoughtful, low-stress addition to your weekly meal plan, saving you precious time and effort.
- A Health-Forward Choice: By consciously skipping breading and excess oil, you’re embracing a naturally lighter, cleaner version of a classic favorite. Chicken tenders themselves are an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, maintaining satiety, and supporting overall well-being. This recipe amplifies those benefits, making it truly a guilt-free pleasure that aligns with various health and fitness goals.
- Dietary Inclusivity for Everyone: The inherent absence of breading automatically makes these tenders suitable for a wide spectrum of dietary needs and preferences, including gluten-free, low-carb, keto, paleo, and Whole30. This makes meal planning for diverse dietary requirements significantly easier, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy the same delicious, wholesome dish without modifications.
- Consistently Perfect & Predictable Results: Unlike stovetop frying which can lead to uneven cooking, splattering oil, and inconsistent results, oven baking provides a consistent and controlled heat environment. This method consistently results in evenly cooked, uniformly golden, and wonderfully juicy chicken tenders every single time, minimizing the risk of dry or undercooked meat and guaranteeing culinary success.
- Outstanding Kid-Friendly Appeal: Chicken tenders are almost universally loved by children, making them a household hero. This healthy, flavorful, and un-breaded version offers parents a fantastic way to provide a protein-rich meal that kids will actually eat, often without realizing how incredibly good it is for them. The mild yet delicious flavor profile, easily customizable with various dipping sauces, ensures they are a resounding hit with young ones.
Essential Ingredients for Perfection
Creating these outstanding baked chicken tenders requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. The magic happens when these humble components come together to create a symphony of flavor. Focus on fresh chicken and quality spices for the best results, as the simplicity of the recipe means each ingredient truly shines.
The Core Components:
- Chicken Tenders (1.5 lbs): Opt for boneless and skinless chicken tenders for the quickest cooking time and easiest preparation. These slender cuts are naturally tender and cook thoroughly in less than 30 minutes in a hot oven. If you can’t find pre-cut tenders, don’t worry! Simply purchase boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them lengthwise into even 1-inch thick strips. Aim for uniform thickness across all pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent some pieces from drying out while others are still cooking. Always pat your chicken thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning; this crucial step helps the spices adhere better and significantly contributes to a crispier exterior texture.
- Our Signature Seasoning Blend: This carefully crafted mix provides a balanced, savory flavor profile that truly makes these tenders shine. Each spice plays a vital role in creating depth and aroma:
- Garlic Powder (1 ½ tsp): A foundational flavor that adds warmth and depth without the raw bite of fresh garlic, ensuring even distribution and a consistent taste throughout.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): This is a game-changer, imparting a beautiful reddish hue and a wonderfully subtle smoky essence that elevates the chicken beyond ordinary, adding a complex layer of flavor.
- Dried Oregano (½ tsp): Offers an earthy, slightly peppery note, characteristic of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, complementing the chicken beautifully with its aromatic qualities.
- Dried Parsley (½ tsp): Provides a fresh, herbaceous background flavor and visual appeal, brightening the overall profile of the dish.
- Salt (½ tsp): Essential for seasoning, it enhances all the other flavors and crucially helps the chicken retain moisture, leading to a juicier final product.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a touch of mild heat and aromatic complexity, perfectly balancing the other spices.
This simple blend delivers incredible flavor, but remember, these no-breading baked chicken tenders are highly customizable. Feel free to explore the “Flavor Variations” section below for even more exciting ideas to personalize your chicken tenders and keep your meals fresh and interesting!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders
Achieving perfectly juicy and flavorful baked chicken tenders is incredibly straightforward, making this recipe a fantastic choice for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps for a stress-free cooking experience and consistently delicious results every time.
Preparation is Key for Optimal Results:
Before you begin, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. A hot oven is absolutely crucial for achieving that desirable crisp exterior and ensuring quick, even cooking of your tenders.
- Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet. Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is vital for searing the outside of the chicken and locking in juices. Next, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is essential for preventing the chicken from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup incredibly easy. Additionally, parchment paper aids in achieving a nicer, slightly crispier crust on your tenders.
- Step 2: Season the Chicken Generously. Place your chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels; removing excess moisture is key for better seasoning adherence and a crispier finish. In a small separate bowl, combine all your seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this aromatic blend evenly over the chicken. Now, it’s time to get hands-on! Use clean hands (or kitchen tongs for a less messy approach) to toss and massage the seasonings into every piece of chicken. Ensure each tender is thoroughly coated from all angles; this is the secret to maximizing flavor in every single bite.
- Step 3: Arrange & Optimize for Crispiness. Transfer the seasoned tenders from the bowl to your prepared baking sheet. It is absolutely crucial to arrange them in a single layer, making sure there’s at least 1 inch of space between each piece. This critical spacing allows hot air to circulate freely around each tender, promoting even cooking and helping them achieve that beautiful golden-brown, slightly crispy crust that makes these no-breading tenders so satisfying. Avoid overcrowding the pan at all costs, as this will lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Step 4: Bake to Perfect Doneness. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18 to 25 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend primarily on the size and thickness of your individual chicken tenders. Smaller, thinner tenders might be ready in as little as 15-18 minutes, while larger or thicker pieces could take up to 25 minutes. To ensure they are perfectly cooked and safe to eat, the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should reach a minimum of 165°F (74°C) when measured with an instant-read meat thermometer. Remember to avoid overcooking, as this is the primary cause of dry chicken.
- Step 5: Rest for Juiciness and Serve. Once cooked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. For the absolute juiciest results, allow the baked chicken tenders to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period is crucial as it allows the natural juices within the meat to redistribute throughout, preventing them from escaping when you cut into the meat. The result? Incredibly moist and tender chicken every time. Then, pair your delicious and healthy baked tenders with your favorite dipping sauces or serve them alongside your chosen side dishes. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, homemade meal!
Expert Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Tenders
While this recipe for no-breading baked chicken tenders is wonderfully simple, a few expert tricks and considerations can elevate your results from good to absolutely phenomenal. Pay attention to these details for consistently juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked chicken every single time.
- Don’t Shy Away from Seasoning! Maximize Flavor. Chicken tenders have a naturally mild flavor, which means they truly thrive on generous seasoning. It’s crucial for every single piece to be thoroughly coated in the spice blend to ensure a burst of flavor in each bite. Don’t hesitate to use your clean hands to really get in there and massage the spices onto the chicken, ensuring no spot is missed. This direct contact guarantees maximum flavor adherence and an even distribution across all surfaces of the chicken.
- Give Them Space: The Secret to Crispiness. This is perhaps the most important tip for achieving a golden, slightly crispy exterior without any breading. Always arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. Crucially, leave at least 1 inch of space between each piece. Overcrowding the pan will trap steam, causing the chicken to essentially steam instead of roast, leading to pale, soft, and less appetizing results. Proper spacing allows the hot air to circulate freely around every side of each tender, promoting even browning and that desirable, delicate crisp texture we’re aiming for.
- The Power of Resting: Lock in Juiciness. After cooking, resist the urge to cut into your tenders immediately. Instead, let them rest for at least 5 minutes on the baking sheet (or transfer them to a cutting board). This brief resting period is vital: it allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb their natural juices, preventing them from escaping when you slice into the meat. The result? Incredibly juicy, tender, and moist chicken every single time, which is the hallmark of perfectly cooked poultry.
- Temperature Matters Most: Use a Meat Thermometer. While cooking times are provided as a helpful guideline, they are always estimates. The most accurate and reliable way to ensure your chicken tenders are perfectly cooked, tender, and safe to eat is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the largest tender; the internal temperature should reach a minimum of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees food safety without overcooking, which is the primary enemy of juicy chicken.
- Parchment Paper is Your Best Friend: Cleanup & Browning. Don’t skip lining your baking sheet with parchment paper. Not only does it make cleanup an absolute breeze by preventing any sticking, but it also helps the chicken develop a nicer, more even crust by offering a non-reactive and slightly non-stick surface. Unlike aluminum foil, which can sometimes cause chicken to stick or react with acidic marinades, parchment paper ensures a smooth release and a consistent cook.
My Pro Tip
Baking Time Varies: Know Your Oven & Your Chicken
Always remember that the precise cooking time for chicken tenders will inevitably vary based on their size, thickness, and even the calibration of your individual oven. While generally, they take around 18 to 25 minutes to cook through in a 425°F (220°C) oven, smaller, thinner strips might be fully cooked in as little as 15 to 18 minutes. Conversely, larger or thicker pieces will naturally require a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature. It’s always best practice to check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer to avoid dry, overcooked chicken and ensure safety. Trust your thermometer more than the clock for perfect results!
Flavor Variations & Creative Serving Suggestions
These breadcrumb-free chicken tenders are truly a culinary blank canvas, offering endless opportunities to customize their flavor profile and seamlessly integrate them into a delightful variety of meals. Let your culinary imagination soar and transform these simple tenders into something extraordinary!
Exciting Flavor Variations: Customize Your Tenders
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While our signature seasoning blend is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and rubs to suit your taste or theme:
- Experiment with Seasoning Blends: Beyond our suggested blend, the possibilities are limitless for creating new flavor experiences.
- Italian Herb: Swap the standard blend for 1-2 tablespoons of a good quality Italian seasoning, along with a bit more garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a Mediterranean flair.
- Smoky BBQ Rub: Use your favorite dry BBQ rub for a sweet, savory, and smoky flavor. Be sure to check the sugar content if you’re adhering to a low-carb diet.
- Spicy Blackened or Cajun: For those who love a kick, opt for a spicy blackened or Cajun seasoning mix. These often contain cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a medley of aromatic dried herbs.
- Tangy Lemon Pepper: A classic combination that adds a bright, zesty note. Pair with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking for an extra pop.
- Creamy Ranch: A dry ranch seasoning mix offers a savory, herbaceous, and slightly tangy flavor that is universally adored by both kids and adults.
- Global Inspirations: Consider adding a tablespoon of curry powder for an Indian-inspired twist, or a pinch of cumin and chili powder for a delicious Mexican flair that pairs well with salsa.
- Brush with a Delectable Glaze or Sauce: For a sticky, caramelized, and intensely flavorful finish, brush your baked tenders with a favorite sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and adhere beautifully without burning.
- Classic BBQ Sauce: A timeless sweet and tangy favorite that creates a lovely glaze.
- Savory Teriyaki Glaze: Adds an umami-rich, slightly sweet coating that’s perfect for an Asian-inspired meal.
- Zesty Honey Mustard: A perfect balance of sweet and sharp, providing a vibrant, tangy kick.
- Fiery Buffalo Sauce: For those who love a spicy kick, this transforms the tenders into a wing-like experience.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a delightful blend of sweet and mild heat, adding a glossy finish.
- Elevate with a Marinade: If you have a little extra time (even just 30 minutes!), marinating the chicken can significantly boost its flavor and tenderness, infusing it with moisture and deeper taste. Soak the tenders in one of your favorite chicken marinades for 30 minutes to 2 hours (avoid marinating for too long, especially with acidic marinades, which can break down the meat too much). After marinating, remember to pat the chicken thoroughly dry before tossing them in the dry seasonings and baking. This pre-treatment ensures maximum juiciness and flavor penetration.
Creative Serving Suggestions: Turn Tenders into a Meal!
These crispy baked chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with an array of dipping sauces and side dishes. You can easily adapt them to fit any meal occasion, from a casual snack or appetizer to a hearty and wholesome dinner.
- The Ultimate Dipping Experience: Set out a platter of different sauces for a customizable feast that caters to all preferences! Popular choices include classic ketchup, creamy ranch dressing, zesty honey mustard, smoky BBQ sauce, spicy buffalo sauce, a homemade chipotle aioli, or sweet chili sauce. The variety adds an element of fun and allows everyone to find their perfect flavor match.
- Hearty Lunch or Dinner Pairings: For a complete and satisfying meal, consider serving your tenders with a range of delicious side dishes:
- Crispy french fries or healthier baked sweet potato fries.
- A refreshing side of homemade coleslaw or a vibrant green salad.
- A medley of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- A light and fluffy quinoa salad, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower carb option.
- Elevate Your Salads: Slice the cooked tenders and use them as a protein-packed topping for a variety of fresh and vibrant salads. They are fantastic on a flavorful apple pecan salad, a hearty and nourishing autumn harvest bowl, or a fresh grilled corn kale salad. The tenders add substantial protein and make any salad a satisfying main course.
- Wrap It Up! Quick & Easy Meals: Transform leftover tenders into delicious wraps, pitas, or tacos. Shred or slice the chicken, then nestle it into a warm pita or tortilla with crisp leafy greens, juicy tomatoes, cool cucumber, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a spicy mayo. These make for excellent packed lunches or light dinners!
- Nourishing Bowls & Stir-Fries: Add sliced tenders to grain bowls with your favorite whole grains, roasted vegetables, and a flavorful dressing for a wholesome and balanced meal. They also work wonderfully sliced and added to a quick stir-fry with your favorite vegetables and a light sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about making delicious, no-breading baked chicken tenders:
In this specific recipe, I’ve found that the seasonings adhere beautifully to the chicken, and they brown nicely in the oven even without needing to be tossed in oil first. This approach keeps the recipe lighter and more hands-off. However, if you desire an extra-crispy finish and a richer, more golden color, you can lightly spray the seasoned tenders with olive oil or avocado oil spray before placing them on the baking sheet. This slight addition of fat can significantly aid in crispness and browning.
Brining is an optional but highly recommended step, as it can significantly enhance both the moisture content and the flavor of your chicken tenders. Soaking raw chicken in a simple saltwater solution (typically 1 tablespoon of salt mixed in 2 cups of water) for 15 to 20 minutes before cooking helps the meat absorb moisture and seasoning, resulting in a juicier, more tender final product. If you choose to brine, ensure you pat the chicken thoroughly dry afterward to promote optimal browning and then proceed with tossing them in the dry seasonings as directed.
Yes, absolutely! As written, this recipe is entirely gluten-free because it consciously utilizes no breading. This makes it a fantastic and safe option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those actively following a gluten-free diet, without needing to make any substitutions or sacrificing taste or texture.
For the best results in terms of texture and even cooking, it’s always recommended to use thawed chicken tenders. If you’re starting with frozen tenders, ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight or by using the defrost setting on your microwave before proceeding with the recipe. Attempting to bake them from frozen will significantly increase cooking time and can often result in uneven cooking, with dry exteriors and potentially undercooked interiors, leading to a less desirable texture.
Achieving extra crispiness without breading is entirely possible with a few crucial techniques:
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: Always pat the chicken tenders thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture is the absolute enemy of crispiness, as it creates steam.
- High Heat Baking: Baking at a high temperature like 425°F (220°C) promotes rapid browning and the development of a crispy exterior.
- Single Layer & Ample Space: As emphasized in our tips, arrange the tenders in a single layer with plenty of space between them on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate freely.
- Optional Oil Spray: A light mist of olive oil or avocado oil spray applied before baking can further aid in achieving a super crispy “skin” on your tenders.
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Proper storage and reheating are key to ensuring your delicious baked chicken tenders remain fresh, flavorful, and safe to enjoy for days after cooking. Don’t let your leftovers go to waste!
- Refrigerator: To store baked and cooled chicken tenders, transfer them promptly to an airtight container. They will keep fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This makes them absolutely perfect for meal prepping healthy, protein-packed lunches throughout the week, offering convenience and nutrition.
- Freezer: For longer-term storage, cooked chicken tenders freeze beautifully, allowing you to have a quick meal option ready whenever you need it. To freeze, arrange the cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 1-2 hours until they are solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To best preserve their delicious texture and flavor, especially their crispiness, avoid the microwave as the primary reheating method if possible.
- Oven (Recommended): Reheat the chicken tenders in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are thoroughly warmed through. This method is ideal for helping to restore their slightly crispy exterior.
- Air Fryer (Best for Crispiness): For an even crispier and most satisfying result, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, making sure to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even heating and crisping.
- Microwave (Quick Option): While not ideal for crispness, microwaving works efficiently in a pinch for a quick reheat. Heat in 30-second intervals, flipping the tenders as needed, until they are warmed through. Be aware they may be softer using this method.
Discover More Delicious Baked Chicken Recipes
DFDairy Free
PPaleo
30Whole30
Baked Crispy Chicken Thighs
PPaleo
30Whole30
Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs
Baked Parmesan Chicken
Baked Caprese Chicken
We hope you enjoyed this recipe! If you made these delicious Baked Chicken Tenders, please share your experience by leaving a comment and a star rating below. Your feedback helps our community and fellow home cooks discover amazing new meals!
Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Erin Alvarez
4 Servings
5 minutes
25 minutes
30 minutes
Print Recipe
These easy Baked Chicken Tenders are lightly seasoned, incredibly juicy on the inside, and prepared without any breading, offering a perfect low-carb, high-protein meal for any lunch or dinner. They’re quick, healthy, and a guaranteed family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb. chicken tenders
- 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
-
Place the chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the seasonings adhere and promote crispiness.
-
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend over the chicken. Using clean hands or kitchen tongs, toss the chicken until every piece is thoroughly and evenly coated with the spices.
-
Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s about 1 inch of space between each piece. This allows for proper air circulation, crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with an instant-read meat thermometer in the thickest part of a tender. Cooking time may vary based on the size and thickness of your tenders.
-
Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for 5 minutes before serving. This step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
Notes
*Nutritional information provided is an estimate per serving and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories:
200kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
1g
|
Protein:
36g
|
Fat:
4g
|
Saturated Fat:
1g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
1g
|
Trans Fat:
0.02g
|
Cholesterol:
109mg
|
Sodium:
489mg
|
Potassium:
659mg
|
Fiber:
0.4g
|
Sugar:
0.1g
|
Vitamin A:
303IU
|
Vitamin C:
2mg
|
Calcium:
15mg
|
Iron:
1mg
Tried this recipe?
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment and a star rating below.