Name: Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into about 3 strips each; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons avocado or olive oil; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; ½ tablespoon dried parsley or oregano; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

There’s something irresistible about the crispy, golden crust paired with juicy, tender chicken inside—that's exactly why this Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort foods. It’s a healthier twist on classic fried chicken that still hits all the right cravings without the mess of deep frying.

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds three golden brown crispy chicken strips with a rough, crunchy texture. To the top left of the chicken strips, there is a pile of bright green fresh green beans, smooth and shiny. On the right side of the plate, a small white bowl is filled with thick, smooth red ketchup, slightly swirled on top. The plate is well arranged with the green beans covering the top left corner, the chicken strips at the bottom, and the bowl of ketchup on the right, creating a colorful and balanced look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made these tends for family dinners and quick lunches—they’re just that good and unbelievably easy. This recipe is perfect when you want the crispy crunch of fried chicken but without the deep fryer. It’s also super forgiving, even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen yet.

Deliciously Crispy: The panko and smoked paprika coating gives these tenders an extra crunch and smoky flavor that's next level.
Healthier Cooking Method: Baked, not fried, so less oil and grease but all the satisfaction.
Easy Marinade: Soaking the chicken in a seasoned milk bath keeps the meat super tender and flavorful.
Versatile & Quick: Great weeknight dinner, lunchbox favorite, and you can always customize the seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient here plays a role in building layers of flavor and that signature crunch. You only need simple pantry staples and fresh chicken for this recipe to work—and grabbing quality panko breadcrumbs really makes a difference if you want that perfect crust.

Flat lay of fresh raw boneless chicken breast strips arranged neatly, a small white bowl filled with whole milk, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, a small white bowl of light, fluffy panko breadcrumbs, a small white bowl with vibrant smoked paprika powder, a small white bowl containing dried green parsley flakes, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl with a fine light-colored garlic powder, a small white bowl with pale onion powder, and a small white bowl of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper placed symmetrically around the chicken strips, all ingredients fresh and natural, no packaging, simple white ceramic bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Boneless Chicken Breasts: I prefer breasts cut into strips because they bake evenly and remain juicy when marinated.
Milk: Acts as a tenderizer and moisture keeper for the chicken when combined with the spices.
Garlic Powder: Adds a warm, savory depth without overpowering the chicken.
Onion Powder: Complements garlic with a subtle sweetness enhancing the flavor.
Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—and don’t skimp here, it balances all the flavors beautifully.
Avocado or Olive Oil: Brushing the pan prevents sticking and helps the coating crisp up nicely.
Panko Breadcrumbs: The star for crispy texture—you’ll want this flaky, light breadcrumb for optimal crunch.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet kick that makes these tenders stand out.
Dried Parsley or Oregano: For aroma and a hint of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One thing I love about this Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe is how adaptable it is. Play around with spices and herbs to suit your mood or what you have on hand. I always encourage making a dish your own because it makes it that much more enjoyable!

Variation: Sometimes I swap smoked paprika for chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne to give it a spicy boost—the kids ask for that version on repeat!
Gluten-Free: I’ve tried it with gluten-free panko crumbs and it still crisps up beautifully, making this recipe safe for those with gluten intolerance.
Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary work wonderfully if you want a brighter, more aromatic touch.
Cooking Method: Although oven-frying is my favorite, I’ve used an air fryer for an even faster cook time with great results.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

A close-up image shows a woman's hand holding a golden-brown, crispy chicken tender dipping into a white bowl filled with smooth, bright red sauce. Around the bowl, there are more crispy chicken tenders with a crunchy texture, showing some black charred spots, placed on a white marbled surface. To the side, there is a small pile of fresh green beans with a glossy look. In the background, a baking tray with more golden pieces is slightly blurred. The whole image is bright and sharp, making the food look fresh and tasty. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Marinate for Maximum Tenderness

Start by whisking together milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss the chicken strips in and let them soak for at least an hour—overnight if you have the time. This soak not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with flavor so each bite is juicy and well-seasoned.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Sheet & Seasoning Mix

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drizzle avocado or olive oil over the sheet and spread it around—the oil helps the breading get golden and prevents sticking. While that’s heating, mix panko breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, dried herbs, salt, and pepper in a large resealable bag.

Step 3: Coat Your Chicken

Drain the chicken from the marinade, then add the strips to your breadcrumb seasoning bag. Seal it up and shake well to get an even coating. Alternatively, dip each piece one by one—it’s a bit messier but guarantees full coverage. Arrange coated tenders spaced out on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crust. You’ll know they’re done when the outside turns golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let them rest a couple of minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Top Tip

Through making these tenders over and over, I've learned that little details truly boost success. These tips helped me avoid the common pitfalls of soggy or bland chicken, so you get crispy, flavorful tenders every time.

Even Coating: Shaking the chicken in the bag with breadcrumbs ensures every nook is perfectly crusted—don’t skip this step!
Don’t Skip the Soak: Marinating in milk and spices keeps the chicken tender and ensures the coating sticks well.
Flip Halfway: Turning the tenders during baking promotes even browning and crunch on all sides.
Use Parchment Paper and Oil: This combo prevents sticking and helps the tenders crisp rather than steam.

How to Serve Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

oven fried chicken tenders - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice over the tenders right before serving—it brightens the flavors and adds a fresh pop. A little drizzle of honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce alongside is also a must-have in my book.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are roasted veggies, a crisp green salad, or sweet potato fries for a touch of sweetness. Sometimes we keep it casual with coleslaw or simple steamed broccoli to make it a balanced meal that everyone enjoys.

Creative Ways to Present

For a kids’ party or casual get-together, I serve these tenders with colorful dipping stations—think ranch, BBQ sauce, and spicy aioli—to keep things fun and interactive. I’ve also turned leftovers into chicken tender wraps with avocado and crisp lettuce for lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling to room temperature, I store any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they last well for up to 4 days. Reheating in the oven or toaster oven is best to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these tenders successfully by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. They keep for about 2 months, and I reheat from frozen in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to crisp them up.

Reheating

Microwaving tends to make the coating soggy, so I always reheat in a 375°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This brings back the crunch and warms the chicken evenly without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this oven-fried chicken tenders recipe?

While chicken thighs are more flavorful, they are also fattier and tend to release more moisture, which can prevent the coating from getting crispy. I recommend sticking with chicken breasts cut into strips for the best crunchy texture with this recipe.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

Marinating the chicken for at least one hour helps tenderize and flavor the meat, but if you can, overnight is even better. This allows the seasonings to soak in deeply, giving the tenders more taste and juiciness.

Can I make this Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The cooking time stays the same, and you’ll still get a crispy, delicious crust.

What’s the best way to reheat these chicken tenders without losing crunch?

Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes. This method keeps the coating crisp and warms the chicken evenly. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy.

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe has honestly made weeknight dinners so much easier and more delicious in my home. I love that it gives me the best part of fried chicken without the hassle, so I hope you give it a try and find it becomes one of your favorites too. Trust me, the crispy, flavorful tenders will have everyone asking for seconds!