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Chicken tenders are a beloved staple in households around the world, celebrated for their tender texture and appealing flavor. From family dinners to casual gatherings with friends, these bite-sized morsels have a universal appeal that transcends age and culinary preference. Whether you’re serving them up as a main course, a snack, or an appetizer, chicken tenders are sure to please a crowd.

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of cooking with these Crunchy Zesty Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders! This recipe elevates a classic favorite into a healthy delight, perfect for any occasion. Made with tender chicken breast, buttermilk for marination, and crispy panko breadcrumbs, each bite is bursting with flavor. Easy to customize with your favorite spices and sauces, these tenders are a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Try them today for a satisfying meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken breast tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce until well combined. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are thoroughly submerged and coated in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor infusion.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

      Prepare the Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the spices. In another shallow bowl, pour in the panko breadcrumbs, ready for coating the chicken.

        Coat the Chicken: Once marinated, take the chicken tenders out of the buttermilk, letting the excess liquid drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip each tender into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well to the chicken.

          Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. For an extra crunch, lightly spray the tops of the tenders with olive oil spray, which will help them crisp up in the oven.

            Bake: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they are cooked through and the breadcrumbs are a beautiful golden brown and crispy. For an even cook, flip the tenders halfway through the baking time.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and allow them to cool for a few moments. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings