If you’re craving a crispy, delicious treat, oven-baked chicken tenders are the answer! They’re easy to make and packed with flavor. In this article, I’ll walk you through simple steps to create the perfect tenders, share tips for a crunchy coating, and offer tasty variations. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a pro, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table. Let’s dive into making your new favorite recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
To make these tasty chicken tenders, you need:
– 1 pound chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
These ingredients create a great base for the tenders. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch, making them extra crispy.
Optional Ingredients for Flavor Enhancement
You can add more flavor with these optional ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme or oregano)
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Zest of 1 lemon
These additions can elevate the dish. Dried herbs add depth, while Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy note. Lemon zest gives a fresh hint that balances the flavors perfectly.
Recommended Dipping Sauces
Serve your chicken tenders with these tasty dips:
– Honey mustard
– Ranch dressing
– Barbecue sauce
– Garlic aioli
Dipping sauces enhance the eating experience. Honey mustard offers sweet and tangy notes. Ranch dressing provides creaminess, while barbecue sauce adds smokiness. Garlic aioli is great for a gourmet touch.
For the full recipe, visit the link provided. Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Chicken Tenders
First, grab your pound of chicken breast tenders. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Next, place the tenders in a medium bowl. Pour in the buttermilk. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate overnight in the fridge. This step adds great flavor and tenderness.
Creating the Coating Mixture
Now, let’s make the coating. Take a shallow dish and mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir these ingredients well to ensure they blend nicely. In another dish, place the Panko breadcrumbs. Drizzle the olive oil over them. Toss the breadcrumbs to coat with oil. This will help them get crispy in the oven.
Baking the Tenders Perfectly
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to coat them. Remove each tender from the buttermilk. Let any extra buttermilk drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture. Make sure it is covered well. Then, dip the floured chicken into the Panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure they stick. Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet. Leave space between each piece for even cooking. Bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. They are ready when golden brown and reach 165°F (75°C) inside. Let them cool a bit before serving for extra crunch. You can find the Full Recipe for all the details.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Crispy Coating
To get that perfect crispy coating, use Panko breadcrumbs. They create a light crunch. Make sure to drizzle olive oil on the breadcrumbs. This helps them crisp up in the oven. Another tip is to flip the chicken halfway through baking. This ensures even browning on all sides. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each chicken tender space to breathe.
Marinating Techniques for More Flavor
Marinating your chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and moisture. You can use plain milk with lemon juice if you don’t have buttermilk. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can marinate overnight. Adding spices to your marinade, like garlic powder, boosts taste. Try to coat every piece well for the best results.
Safe Cooking Temperatures & Testing Doneness
Cook your chicken tenders until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This keeps them safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. To test doneness, cut into a tender. The meat should be white, not pink. If you’re unsure, always check the temperature. This simple step ensures your meal is both safe and delicious.
Variations
Spicy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
To add some heat, I love making spicy oven baked chicken tenders. Just mix in cayenne pepper with the flour. You can also add some hot sauce to the buttermilk. This gives your chicken a nice kick. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. If you like it hot, add more cayenne!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders
For a cheesy twist, try parmesan crusted chicken tenders. Mix grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture. The cheese adds a rich flavor and a nice crunch. You can use half breadcrumbs and half parmesan for a great texture. This variation works well with marinara sauce for dipping.
Gluten-Free Options Using Alternative Breading
If you need gluten-free chicken tenders, it’s easy to make changes. Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of Panko. Both options give you a crispy coating. Just make sure to check your labels for hidden gluten. These adjustments let everyone enjoy crispy chicken tenders!
For all these variations, check out the Full Recipe for the basic steps. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders
To store leftover chicken tenders, first let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about three days. For best taste, eat them within this time.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and tasty. You can also use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
Freezing chicken tenders is a great option for long-term storage. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each tender tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped tenders in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps them juicy and flavorful. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders without Buttermilk?
You can use milk with lemon juice. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes. This will create a similar tangy flavor as buttermilk. You can use this mixture to marinate the chicken. It works just as well!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs. Thighs will give you a juicier bite. They may take a bit longer to cook. Just make sure they reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. Thighs offer great flavor and texture, making a tasty option.
What sides pair well with Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?
Many sides go well with these chicken tenders. Try serving them with:
– French fries
– Mashed potatoes
– Steamed broccoli
– Coleslaw
– Fresh salad
These sides balance the meal and add more fun to your plate!
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover chicken tenders can last up to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. Reheat them well before eating!
What is the best way to cook chicken tenders if I don’t have an oven?
If you don’t have an oven, you can fry them on the stove. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety. Enjoy them crispy and delicious!
Oven baked chicken tenders offer a tasty treat that’s easy to make. We explored the key ingredients, simple steps, and ways to make them crispy. I shared tips for extra flavor and safe cooking. Don’t forget the fun variations and storage tips to keep leftovers fresh.
Experiment with sauces and enjoy your meal. You can create your perfect chicken tenders at home. Try new flavors and enjoy each bite!
