oven fried chicken tenders recipe
The Best oven fried chicken tenders recipe
Oh, honey, let me tell you why oven-fried chicken tenders are my go-to recipe—both for simple weeknight dinners and special occasions. There’s something about the golden, crispy exterior that makes every bite feel like a little victory, and honestly, it’s one of those things that makes my kids actually look forward to eating. I started making them this way years ago because I wanted something easier than deep-frying but still just as satisfying. No greasy mess, no waiting for the oil to heat up, and the kids love that they’re not drowning in oil like they would with fried chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein and veggies—just toss the tenders with a little breadcrumbs and egg wash, then bake them until they’re crispy as a fry. It’s foolproof, quick, and always a hit.
My family’s favorite part isn’t just the taste—it’s how versatile it is. We’ll make a batch for Sunday dinner, and the kids will eat them straight from the pan because they’re so good. Or we’ll pack them in lunchboxes for school, and suddenly they’re not just chicken tenders anymore, they’re a little treat. And for holidays or game days, they’re the perfect side—crispy, flavorful, and easy to scale up. Plus, there’s something about the health benefits that makes me feel good about it. It’s got protein, and the oven method means less fat than deep-frying, but still that satisfying crunch. It’s not the healthiest thing you can eat every day, but it’s a great balance—something that tastes like a real meal without all the fuss. My kids eat them all the time, and I don’t even feel guilty about it.
Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Tenders
A delicious and crispy oven-baked version of classic chicken tenders, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The tender pieces are coated in a flavorful breading and baked to golden perfection.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2 In a shallow bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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3 Place chicken tenders in the egg mixture, letting them coat thoroughly. Remove excess egg, then dip each tender into the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
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4 Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
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5 Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Flip the tenders with tongs and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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6 While the chicken is baking, mix all the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
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7 Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with the homemade dipping sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Tenders Works
This oven-fried chicken tenders recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to make ahead and cook at the last minute, yet it still turns out crispy and juicy every single time. It’s perfect for family gatherings because it’s easy to scale up without much extra effort, and the kids love them just as much as the adults—no fancy sides required. Plus, it’s a hands-off way to feed a crowd without the mess of deep-frying, so it’s practical for busy weeknights too.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Tenders
What is the secret to achieving crispy oven-fried chicken tenders?
The secret lies in a few key steps: first, coat the chicken tenders in a thick, double-dredge of flour and breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch). Then, ensure they are thoroughly dried before frying or baking. Baking at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes with a little oil spray or a light brushing ensures even crispiness without overcooking. Adding a pinch of baking powder to the flour can also help achieve a lighter, airier texture.
How do I make sure the chicken tenders stay juicy while being crispy?
To keep the chicken tenderly juicy, pat the tenders very dry before coating and baking. Avoid overcrowding the baking tray to allow heat circulation. For extra moisture, you can lightly spray the tenders with water or a mix of water and a little oil before baking. Additionally, cutting the chicken into even-sized pieces ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. A quick rest in a warm oven for 2-3 minutes after baking can also help retain juices.
Can I use store-bought chicken tenders for this recipe, or should I make them from scratch?
You can use store-bought chicken tenders, but making them from scratch gives you better control over seasoning and texture. If using store-bought, pat them dry thoroughly and trim any excess fat. For homemade tenders, mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, and your choice of seasonings (like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika) to bind them together before shaping into tenders. Freezing them for 30 minutes before baking can also help them hold their shape better.
What are some great toppings and sides to serve with oven-fried chicken tenders?
Oven-fried chicken tenders pair well with classic sides like honey mustard dip, ranch dressing, tartar sauce, or spicy mayo. For a lighter option, try a simple yogurt-based dip with diced onions and chives. As sides, consider: – Crispy fries or sweet potato fries (tossed in oil and seasoned) – Mac & cheese (for a comforting meal) – Coleslaw (for a refreshing contrast) – Grilled veggies or a simple salad (to balance the richness) – Corn on the cob (buttered or with a sprinkle of chili powder)
How long should I bake the chicken tenders, and what temperature should I use?
For best results, bake the chicken tenders at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway. If your oven isn’t that hot, you can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, but the crispiness may be slightly less. Always check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the tenders brown too quickly on the outside, reduce the temperature slightly and cover with foil for the first 10 minutes to prevent drying out.
