Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a simple, family-friendly dinner that delivers juicy chicken with bold flavor and minimal prep. This no-breading chicken tenderloins recipe uses butter and a blend of pantry spices to create tender, flavorful chicken strips baked right in the oven. Perfect for healthy baked chicken recipes, busy weeknights, or quick meals with few ingredients, this recipe is an easy way to make chicken breast tenderloins in the oven without drying them out.
Ingredient Overview
This oven baked chicken tenders recipe uses simple ingredients that pack big flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup | Moisture and flavor |
| Chicken tenderloins | 1 lb | Protein |
| Paprika | 1 tbsp | Color and flavor |
| Garlic powder | 2 tsp | Savory depth |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Balance |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Freshness |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | Herb flavor |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 tsp | Mild heat |
| Brown sugar | 1 tsp | Flavor balance |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These oven baked chicken tenders are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make with no breading using butter and simple seasonings.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 lb chicken breast tenders
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
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Melt butter in shallow dish.
3. Mix seasoning ingredients.
4. Dip chicken in butter and coat with seasoning.
5. Arrange on baking sheet.
6. Bake until internal temp reaches 165°F.
7. Garnish and serve.
Notes
Do not overcrowd pan.
Butter keeps chicken juicy.
Air fryer option included.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Why This Recipe Works
These oven baked chicken tenders stay juicy because the melted butter locks in moisture while baking at a moderate temperature. Skipping breading keeps the recipe lighter while allowing the seasoning blend to shine. This method is perfect for baked chicken recipes that are healthy, easy, and full of flavor without extra steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Slice the butter into tablespoon-sized pieces and place them in a shallow dish. Microwave in 30-second intervals until fully melted.
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh parsley, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken tender into the melted butter, coating all sides, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken tenders.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Air Fryer Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve oven baked chicken tenders with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain juiciness.
Conclusion
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and no breading, this recipe is perfect for easy weeknight meals and clean eating routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips for similar results.
Do these tenders stay juicy without breading?
Yes, the butter keeps them moist while baking.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Increase the cayenne pepper to taste.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they reheat well and store easily.