How to Bake Juicy, Flavorful Chicken Tenders Perfectly Every Time

Chicken tenders are a quick easy and tasty option for busy weeknight dinners. Their lean, tender texture makes them appealing to kids and adults alike. But baking chicken tenders so they turn out moist and delicious can be tricky.

With the right tips and techniques, you’ll be able to bake chicken tenders to crispy juicy perfection every time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know from prep work to cook times and temperatures. Let’s dive in!

What Are Chicken Tenders and Why Bake Them?

Chicken tenders, also called chicken tenderloins or chicken strips, are cuts of meat from the underside of a chicken breast. They are long, thin, and naturally tender because they don’t get much exercise.

Here are some of the benefits of baking chicken tenders:

• Quick cook time – Since they are thin, they bake faster than bone-in chicken.

• Lean protein – Chicken tenders are lower in fat than alternatives like wings or thighs.

• Kid-approved – Their mild flavor and tenderness make them perfect for picky eaters.

• Versatile – Chicken tenders work in everything from weeknight dinners to packed lunches.

• Healthier than frying – Baking avoids the extra calories from deep frying without sacrificing crunch.

Picking the Best Chicken Tenders

Start with high-quality chicken tenders for the best results:

• Look for uniform size – Tenders that are similar in size will cook evenly.

• Opt for fresh over frozen – Fresh tenders will have better texture. Only use frozen if you forgot to thaw.

• Watch the thickness – Thicker tenders may need a little longer to cook through. Thinner is better for even baking.

• Consider boneless and skinless – This reduces prep and keeps things easy.

Once you have great chicken, proper seasoning and preparation will take your baked tenders to new heights.

Seasoning and Flavoring Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders absorb flavors easily, so take advantage by using rubs, marinades, and breading to make them pop.

Marinades

Soaking tenders in a marinade imparts extra moisture and flavor. Try marinating for 30 minutes up to overnight.

Delicious marinade ideas:

• Lemon garlic – olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs

• Teriyaki – soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic

• Buttermilk – buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder

• Mediterranean – olive oil, lemon, oregano, parsley

Seasonings and Rubs

A sprinkle of seasoning before baking gives a quick flavor boost. Keep the blend balanced without over-seasoning the tender meat.

Seasoning ideas:

• Italian – garlic powder, oregano, basil, Parmesan

• Mexican – cumin, chili powder, lime juice, oregano

• BBQ rub – brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder

• Lemon pepper – lemon zest, cracked black pepper

• Jerk – allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, brown sugar

Breadcrumbs and Breading

For ultra-crispy baked tenders, coat them with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko. The coating bakes to a crunchy crust.

Breading tip: Let coated tenders chill for 10-15 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere.

Now let’s get into the best baking methods and techniques.

How to Bake Chicken Tenders to Perfection

Baking chicken tenders is simple, but there are a few tricks that can take your results from good to incredible.

1. Choose the Right Temperature

The ideal oven temperature for baking chicken tenders is 400°F to 450°F. This higher heat helps the exterior get crispy and browned before the interior dries out.

Adjust time accordingly:

• 400°F – 20-25 minutes
• 425°F – 15-18 minutes
• 450°F – 12-15 minutes

2. Use a Wire Rack

Baking chicken tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows air to circulate underneath for even cooking. The rack prevents soggy bottoms.

If you don’t have a rack, flip the tenders halfway through baking.

3. Check Internal Temperature

Always use a meat thermometer to test doneness. Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Overbaking leads to dry, rubbery texture, so err on the side of slightly underdone. The temperature will rise as they rest.

4. Let Them Rest

After baking, let the tenders sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps lock in moisture and allows the juices to redistribute through the meat.

5. Add a Crispy Finish

For an extra crunch factor, turn the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes at the end to toast the exterior. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Cooking Times for Chicken Tenders

To recap the baking times:

Fresh, Unbreaded Tenders

• 400°F – 15-20 minutes

Breaded or Frozen Tenders

• 400°F – 20-25 minutes

Frozen Tenders, No Thawing

• 400°F – 25-30 minutes

The thickness of the specific tenderloins can shift the time by a few minutes. Rely on a meat thermometer for guaranteed safety and doneness.

Serving and Dipping Sauce Ideas

Baked chicken tenders are delicious on their own, but they also pair fantastically with an array of sides, sandwiches, salads, and dips.

• Serve with classic barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch, or blue cheese dip.

• Pile into wraps or sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, avocado.

• Toss with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies for a hearty meal.

• Chop and add to fresh garden or Greek salads for a protein punch.

• Stuff into tacos or quesadillas for a Mexican-inspired treat.

With so many possibilities, you’ll never get bored with baked chicken tenders.

Storage and Reheating Leftover Tenders

Properly storing and reheating leftover baked tenders keeps them tasting fresh.

Storage

• Refrigerate in a sealed container up to 4 days.

• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

• Air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes.

• Microwave on half power, 1-2 minutes.

Bring leftovers to 165°F. Add a splash of chicken broth or cover to prevent drying out.

Common Baking Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

How do you keep baked chicken tenders moist?

• Don’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer to prevent overbaking.

• Marinate beforehand to infuse flavor and moisture.

• Let rest before cutting to seal in juices.

Can I bake frozen chicken tenders without thawing?

Yes, just add 5-10 extra minutes to the cook time and cook until 165°F.

Should I flip halfway through baking?

Flipping ensures even browning. If using a rack, flipping is optional.

How do I get crispy baked chicken tenders?

Use panko breadcrumbs and bake at 400-450°F. Chilling coated tenders before baking also helps.

Can I bake chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook at 400°F, flipping occasionally, until 165°F internally.

Take Your Chicken Tenders to the Next Level

With the right prep, seasonings, and baking techniques, you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken tenders easily at home.

Here are some final tips for baking succulent, flavor-packed chicken tenders every time:

• Pound tenders to an even thickness.

• Pat dry before breading for maximum crispness.

• Use a thermometer for perfect doneness.

• Let baked tenders rest before cutting.

• Play with flavors in marinades, rubs, and dipping sauces.

• Store and reheat leftovers properly to retain moisture.

Satisfy cravings and picky eaters alike with homemade baked chicken tenders. Ditch the drive-thru and bake up a batch tonight using this comprehensive guide. Enjoy juicy, crunchy, delicious tenders that beat takeout any day of the week.