Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy, golden, and loaded with flavor, these Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a true game changer for busy weeknights. No frying, no splatter, and hardly any cleanup! Each tender piece of chicken comes out juicy on the inside with a crunchy, irresistibly seasoned coating on the outside. They’re everything you crave in a chicken finger—just healthier and fuss-free. With a zesty homemade honey mustard sauce, you’ll be dipping until the very last crumb disappears.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Toasted for unbeatable crunch that clings to the tenders—truly the star for that perfect golden crust.
• Chicken Tenders: Or mini chicken fillets, or boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips—whatever’s on hand, just aim for even sizes for even cooking.
• Egg: The base for the “glue” that coats the chicken and ensures the breadcrumbs stick snugly.
• Mayonnaise: Makes the coating rich and helps keep the chicken moist as it bakes.
• Dijon Mustard: Gives a subtle tang and sophistication—don’t skip it!
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the egg mixture, aiding in that beautiful golden crust.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds earthy, smoky depth—regular paprika works in a pinch, but smoked takes it up a notch.
• Garlic Powder: A little garlic goes a long way in building robust flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer—taste as you go.
• Oil Spray: Just a light mist to crisp up those panko breadcrumbs in the oven. No need for deep frying!
• For the Honey Mustard Sauce: Mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt for the creamiest, dreamiest dip.

Variations

The fun doesn’t stop at classic! Here are some easy ways to change things up:

• Spicy Kick: Stir a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the coating for tenders with a little heat.
• Cheesy Crunch: Add grated Parmesan right into the panko before breading for a rich, savory touch.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley with the breadcrumbs for freshness.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes.
• Alternative Sauces: Swap honey mustard for ranch, BBQ, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

1. Toast the Panko

First things first—spread panko breadcrumbs onto a baking sheet and lightly spray with oil. Toast at 375°F (190°C) for 7–8 minutes, just until golden. This step is non-negotiable if you want the most satisfying crunch!

2. Make the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the egg with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The mayo keeps everything extra juicy, and that hint of Dijon does wonders.

3. Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, press each piece firmly into the toasted panko so every inch is covered in breadcrumbs.

4. Arrange and Bake

Lay the coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined sheet pan. If you have a rack, use it—the air circulation crisps all sides. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–17 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the outside is golden and crunchy.

5. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

While the tenders bake, stir mayonnaise, Dijon, honey, and salt together until smooth. That’s it! A sweet, tangy dip that takes these tenders over the top.

How to Serve

There’s no wrong way to serve these chicken tenders, but here are some favorites:

• Classic: Pile them up with honey mustard for dipping, and serve alongside crispy fries or sweet potato wedges.
• Low-Carb: Pair with a big salad—a tangy slaw or leafy greens work beautifully.
• Kid-Friendly: Cut into bites and serve with veggies and extra dipping sauces for the little ones.
• Wraps or Salads: Slice leftovers into wraps or atop a Caesar salad for next-day lunches.

Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of paprika for a color pop if you’re feeling fancy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. These tenders stay surprisingly crisp!

Freezing

Arrange cooled tenders in a single layer, freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Perfect for quick lunches or late-night snacks.

Reheating

To revive crispiness, reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer until warmed through—avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s simple, reliably delicious, and so much more exciting than takeout, these Oven Baked Chicken Tenders will not disappoint. The crisp factor is outrageous, and every bite is perfectly seasoned. Don’t be surprised if these become a regular feature at your table—give them a try, customize them to your liking, and let your weeknight dinner routine shine!

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