The BEST Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are an easy and quick recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or simple family meals. They cook fast and require minimal ingredients, making them a reliable go-to option when you need something flavorful and satisfying.
This recipe focuses on keeping the chicken juicy and well-seasoned while keeping the process simple and straightforward.
If you enjoy easy meals like homemade chicken fries or oven baked chicken wings, this recipe is a great option.
You can explore more meals like this in the Dinner Recipes.
Why You'll Love This The BEST Chicken Tenders
- Easy to make
This recipe uses simple steps that are easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners. - Quick cooking time
Chicken tenders cook fast, making them ideal for busy days. - Juicy and flavorful
The seasoning helps bring out the natural flavor of the chicken while keeping it tender. - Versatile
These chicken tenders can be served with different sides or used in wraps, salads, or bowls.
Key Ingredients You'll Need
- Chicken tenderloins – The main ingredient that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Butter or oil – Helps coat the chicken and enhances flavor.
- Seasonings – Adds flavor and helps create a well-seasoned exterior.
How to Make The BEST Chicken Tenders
1. Start With The Marinade (the #1 key to juicy tenders!). Use my flavorful, ultra-tenderizing
Chicken Marinade .Even 20–30 minutes works wonders, but 4–8 hours is chef’s kiss.
2. Sear First for MAXIMUM Juiciness. This is the technique that changes everything.
- Heat skillet with oil until shimmering.
- Sear tenders 2 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Transfer to a 400°F oven and bake 9 minutes.
3. REST for 3 minutes—this step keeps all the juices inside!
This creates:
A golden crust
A juicy interior
Incredible flavor
Restaurant-quality tenders every single time.
4. Don’t Overcook
Chicken tenders cook FAST.
Pull them at 165°F and let them rest.
5. Use High Heat
400°F gives the perfect balance of browning + moisture retention.
For another quick meal, try cajun chicken.
You can also explore similar recipes in the Oven Baked Recipes
Stacie’s Tricks & Tips
1🍗 Tips for Breaded Chicken Tenders (Crispy, Crunchy, Golden PERFECTION)
Whether baking or frying, these rules make or break your crunch:
✔ Dry → Wet → Dry Method
Pat chicken dry
Dip in beaten egg or buttermilk
Coat in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs
This creates the perfect cling.
✔ Season Every Layer
Salt + garlic + paprika + pepper should be in:
The marinade
The egg wash
The coating
Seasoning at each stage = flavor all the way through.
✔ Use Your Signature Breaded Crumb Coat
This coating fries beautifully golden and bakes into a crispy, oven-fried texture.
✔ For Baked Breaded Tenders
Spray both sides with cooking spray
Place on a wire rack for airflow
Bake at 425°F for 13–15 minutes
🍗 Tips for Fried Chicken Tenders (Crispy, Crunchy, Golden PERFECTION)
Using your fried chicken crumb coat:
✔ Use Oil at 350°F
Too cold = greasy
Too hot = burnt
350°F = perfect
✔ Let Them Rest on a Cooling Rack
Keeps them crispy, not soggy.
✔ Always Double-Dip for Maximum Crunch
Dip → coat → dip → coat again.
Breaded Chicken Tenders (Baked or Fried)
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
½ cup buttermilk or 2 beaten eggs
1 cup flour or breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying (if frying)
Instructions (Baked)
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Set up bowls: dry mix + wet mix.
Dry → wet → dry. Coat completely.
Place on a wire rack.
Spray tops with cooking spray.
Bake 13–15 minutes until crispy.
Instructions (Fried)
Heat oil to 350°F.
Coat tenders using double-dip method.
Fry 4–5 minutes until golden brown.
Place on a wire rack to stay crispy.
If you make these chicken tenders, don’t forget to share your delicious creations on Instagram, Pinterest, or TikTok and tag me so I can cheer you on! And because I love spoiling my community, you can enjoy a generous discount at checkout on Caraway cookware—just use my code STACIE at caraway.com for savings on their gorgeous, non-toxic kitchen essentials. Happy cooking!
The Best Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- Sheet pan
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders
- ½ cup marinade
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- sea salt to taste
- ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp each seasoning of choice paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
Instructions
- Marinate chicken using your chicken marinade (20 minutes to 8 hours).
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Heat oil in skillet.
- Sear tenders for 2 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Transfer the skillet or tenders onto a lined baking sheet.
- Bake 9 minutes.
- REST 3 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Baked Version)
(Approximate per serving)- Calories: 230
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do chicken tenders take to cook?
Chicken tenders cook quickly and are typically done once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What temperature should chicken tenders be cooked at?
Chicken tenders are usually baked at a moderate oven temperature until fully cooked and tender.
Can you cook chicken tenders in the oven?
Chicken tenders can be cooked in the oven, making them an easy and convenient option for quick meals.
Why are my chicken tenders dry?
Chicken tenders can become dry if they are overcooked. Cooking just until done helps keep them juicy.
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