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Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 from 122 reviews

This Oven Baked Chicken Tenders recipe offers crispy, flavorful chicken tenders seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs, baked to perfection in your oven. The buttery coating ensures a juicy texture, making it a perfect easy-to-make meal or snack. Additionally, an air fryer method provides a quicker alternative with equally delicious results.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Butter

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders

Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter: Cut the unsalted butter into 1 tbsp cubes and place them in a shallow microwave-safe dish. Microwave in 30-second increments until fully melted.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350° F to get it ready for baking the chicken tenders.
  3. Make the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh parsley, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
  4. Season the chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the melted butter, coating it thoroughly, and then lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the tenders.
  5. Bake the chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165° F, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and tender. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
  6. Air fryer alternative: Preheat the air fryer to 375° F. Place the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.

Notes

  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165° F for safe consumption.
  • For extra crispiness, you can broil the tenders for the last 2 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • If you prefer less spicy, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
  • This recipe works well with both fresh and frozen chicken tenders; if using frozen, thaw before cooking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: oven baked chicken tenders, baked chicken, chicken recipe, easy chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders