Heritage-Style Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a family-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, these Heritage-Style Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are just the thing. Lightly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they're a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients for Heritage-Style Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Let's start with the star of the dish: chicken tenderloins. They're naturally tender and quick to cook, making them ideal for this recipe. The all-purpose flour provides the base for our dredging process, allowing the seasonings to adhere to the chicken.

Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika come together to create a flavorful seasoning mix that gives the tenders a delicious kick. Eggs act as the binding agent to ensure the breadcrumb mixture sticks to the chicken, while the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese add a crispy, cheesy coating. Finally, melted butter drizzled over the top helps achieve that golden finish in the oven.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you have time, let the coated tenders rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste—add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or some Italian herbs for an aromatic twist.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or your favorite roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a kid-friendly option, serve them with homemade fries and a side of honey mustard or ketchup for dipping. They also make a great addition to a party platter alongside some fresh veggies and a creamy ranch dip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips if you don't have tenderloins. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Can these be frozen?
Absolutely! Freeze them on a baking sheet before storing in a freezer bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Heritage-Style Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Grab three shallow dishes: one for the flour mixture, another for the beaten eggs, and a third for the breadcrumb mix.

In the first dish, combine the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Give it a good stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. In the second dish, whisk the eggs until they're smooth and slightly frothy.

In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. The Parmesan adds that extra savory depth that makes these tenders irresistible.

Now, it's time to coat the chicken. Dredge each tenderloin in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip away, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure the chicken is well-coated for maximum crunch.

Arrange the tenders on your prepared baking sheet, spaced apart so they cook evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, which will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Pop them into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
  • Baked, not fried, for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
  • Uses common pantry staples you probably already have.
  • Perfectly customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenderloins
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup melted butter

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
4. In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
6. Place the tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle melted butter over them.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through, turning once halfway through baking.

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