Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders

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Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re craving a crunchy and flavorful dish that’s also easy to make, look no further than Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders. These crispy chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, but they don’t skimp on taste. With the perfect blend of herbs and spices, these tender pieces of chicken will satisfy your cravings and have you coming back for more.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You can enjoy the delicious taste of fried chicken without the guilt of deep frying. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover how you can create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen.

What makes Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders so irresistible? Let’s break it down:

1. Crispy Coating: These chicken tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture that crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving you that satisfying crunch without the extra oil.

2. Juicy Chicken: The tender chicken strips stay moist and flavorful on the inside while achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior.

3. Versatile Flavors: You can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a hint of smokiness, a touch of heat, or a combination of savory spices.

4. Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and tasty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 pound chicken tenders

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 2 eggs

– Cooking spray

Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions for creating these delectable Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.

4. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking spray.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.

7. Serve the Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce and sides.

Serving Suggestions

These Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, but you can take them to the next level by pairing them with:

– Creamy mashed potatoes

– Crispy coleslaw

– Honey mustard dipping sauce

– Freshly baked cornbread

Looking to switch things up? Here are some creative variations and substitutions you can try:

– Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating

– Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

– Substitute the Parmesan cheese with grated cheddar for a different flavor profile

– Try marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk before breading for added tenderness

Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders

For guaranteed success with your Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders, keep these pro tips in mind:

– Make sure to preheat your oven sufficiently to ensure a crispy coating

– Space the chicken tenders apart on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking

– For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture

– To prevent sticking, use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your baking sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken breasts for chicken tenders in this recipe. Simply cut the chicken breasts into strips of similar size.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

3. Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. What can I do if the coating is not crispy enough?

If you prefer an even crispier coating, try broiling the chicken tenders for a couple of minutes at the end of the baking time.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that all your other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken with a healthier preparation method. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these crispy chicken tenders that will please your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s both easy to make and enjoyable to eat!

Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders

Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders

Recipe by Author

4.5 from 125 votes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: easy
🍽️
Servings
4
⏱️
Prep time
10 minutes
🔥
Cooking time
25 minutes
📊
Calories
380 kcal

Crispy chicken tenders coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, offering a healthier twist on a classic favorite. These juicy and flavorful chicken tenders are easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • Cooking spray

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
  4. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking spray.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.
  7. Serve the Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce and sides.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 380
Fat: 16
Carbohydrates: 19
Protein: 36
Sodium: 800
Fiber: 2
Sugar: 2