Who doesn’t love a crispy, juicy chicken tender? But when you’re craving that delightful crunch without the deep-frying guilt, oven fried chicken tenders come to the rescue. They promise the same satisfying bite with fewer calories, not to mention they’re much easier to clean up after. This recipe is not just a healthier alternative but also a time-saver on busy weeknights!
Ingredients
To make these delightful tenders, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of chicken tenders
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil
Equipments
Before starting, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Baking tray
- Wire rack
- Mixing bowls
- Kitchen tongs
- Oven mitts
How to Make Oven Fried Chicken Tenders – Step By Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. This step is crucial because buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and add flavor. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate them overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare Your Coating Station
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your coating station. Take three bowls: one with flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, another with panko breadcrumbs, and the last one empty for the marinated chicken tenders.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Coat each chicken tender in the seasoned flour first, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully covered for that extra crunch.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Tray
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with a wire rack and arrange the coated chicken tenders on it. This allows the heat to circulate and cooks the tenders evenly. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes. The tenders should be golden brown and cooked through. You can verify doneness by checking that the internal temperature is at least 165°F (75°C).
How to Serve Oven Fried Chicken Tenders
These oven fried chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a side of crispy fries, a fresh garden salad, or some creamy coleslaw. They’re perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure your chicken tenders turn out extra crispy, be sure not to overcrowd them on the baking rack. Crowding will cause steam and prevent them from crisping. If they’re getting dark too quickly, adjust your rack lower in the oven or reduce temperature slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.
Pumped-Up Protein: For the Gym-Goers!
Looking to increase your protein intake? Try replacing panko with almond flour and add a touch of grated Parmesan to your coating. This version not only boosts the protein content but adds an extra flavor punch that is sure to impress!
Low Carb Lovers: Grinder-Free Tender Twist!
If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, swap the panko breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds. It maintains that delightful crunch while aligning with your keto goals. Use this method as the perfect low-carb indulgence without sacrificing texture or taste!
Storage Instructions
Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a hot oven for 8–10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. For longer storage, freeze them on a tray before transferring them into a freezer-safe bag or container.
FAQs
- Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free? – Absolutely! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free option and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- What if I don’t have buttermilk? – No worries! You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk.
- Can these be made ahead of time? – Yes, you can coat the tenders and refrigerate them for several hours before baking.
- How do I know they’re done without a thermometer? – Check that the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
- How do I prevent sogginess when reheating? – Use a convection setting or keep a crack in the oven door to let moisture escape.
Get Your Chicken Game on Point!
These oven fried chicken tenders are a delightful, healthier twist on a classic favorite. They’re easy to make, incredibly versatile, and bound to become a family staple. If you enjoyed this recipe or added your special twist, do share your feedback or tag us in your mouthwatering creations on social media. Happy Cooking!
Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken tenders
- buttermilk
- panko breadcrumbs
- all-purpose flour
- paprika
- garlic powder
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare a coating station with flour, seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and another bowl with panko crumbs.
- Coat each tender first in flour, then in buttermilk, and finally in breadcrumbs.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange tenders on a wire rack, spraying with cooking oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.