Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Name: Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey

Published: January 21, 2026

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

This incredible Oven Baked Chicken Tenders transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Oven Baked Chicken Tenders:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs give an extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t compete with.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory depth and helps achieve that golden color.
Olive Oil: A drizzle will help everything stick together and add moisture during baking.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.
Honey: Sweetens up the sauce perfectly and balances out the saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Oven Baked Chicken Tenders:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

Cut your boneless chicken breasts into strips. This is where you can channel your inner chef—make them as thick or thin as you like.

Step 3: Create Your Coating

In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk some olive oil with your favorite herbs (think Italian seasoning or paprika).

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the olive oil mixture first before rolling it in the breadcrumb mix. Make sure they’re well coated because nobody wants bland tenders!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Flip halfway for even crispiness.

Step 6: Whip Up That Sauce

While those tenders are baking, mix together soy sauce and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat until combined. This will be your sweet and savory dipping sauce.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

These Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are more than just food; they’re an experience waiting to happen at your dinner table!

You Must Know About Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

This showstopping Oven Baked Chicken Tenders delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your chicken tenders by seasoning them well. Then, bread the chicken and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper before popping them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or panko for an extra crunch! Experiment with various seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or even parmesan cheese to elevate your Oven Baked Chicken Tenders.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. For reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

This professional-quality Oven Baked Chicken Tenders relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I once made Oven Baked Chicken Tenders for a potluck, and my friends devoured them faster than I could say “tender.” They still ask me for the recipe!

FAQs

What is Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?

Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. These tender strips of chicken breast are coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown. This cooking method not only reduces fat content but also retains the juicy flavor of the chicken. Perfect as a main dish or appetizer, Oven Baked Chicken Tenders can be served with various dipping sauces, making them a family favorite. Enjoy them with sides like salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do you make Oven Baked Chicken Tenders crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispy texture for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders, start by using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Panko provides a lighter, airier crunch. Ensure the chicken strips are dry before coating them in flour, egg wash, and then panko. Spraying the tenders lightly with cooking spray or brushing them with oil before baking enhances crispiness. Bake at a high temperature to achieve that golden brown finish while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Can you freeze Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can freeze Oven Baked Chicken Tenders! After baking, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-friendly bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. This makes Oven Baked Chicken Tenders an excellent choice for meal prep or quick snacks.

What are some good dipping sauces for Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?

There are plenty of delicious dipping sauces that pair well with Oven Baked Chicken Tenders! Classic options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing. For a spicy kick, try sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce. If you’re looking for something fresh, consider tzatziki or a tangy yogurt-based dip. Experimenting with different flavors elevates your meal experience and makes these chicken tenders even more enjoyable!

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Tenders offer a tasty and healthier option for any meal. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they satisfy cravings without excess calories from frying. By following simple techniques such as using panko breadcrumbs and proper seasoning, you can create an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with various dipping sauces, Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe today!