Welcome to your new go-to recipe for incredibly flavorful and effortlessly easy Oven Baked Marinated Chicken Tenders. Forget complicated cooking methods or greasy fried chicken; this recipe brings you tender, juicy chicken pieces bursting with taste, all cooked healthily in your oven. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping for a wholesome week ahead, or delighting guests with a simple yet impressive dish, these marinated chicken tenders are guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite. We’re talking about a gluten-free, no-breading recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals and picky eaters alike. Prepare to transform your dinner routine with this delicious and versatile meal!
These delectable and simple oven-baked chicken tenders owe their fantastic flavor to a savory marinade, often featuring balsamic vinegar or a robust Italian dressing. By choosing the oven-baked method over frying, you unlock a healthier alternative that’s equally satisfying. The absence of breading means fewer carbs and a naturally gluten-free dish, allowing the true taste of the marinated chicken to shine through. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re serving a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on the amazing taste and tender texture everyone loves.
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Why These Oven Baked Marinated Chicken Tenders Are A Must-Try
- Universal Appeal and Unbeatable Simplicity. Chicken tenders are a timeless classic, adored by all ages. This particular oven-baked version elevates the experience with its quick preparation, absence of breading (making it naturally gluten-free), and utterly delicious outcome. It’s the kind of meal that pleases everyone at the table, from toddlers to adults, making dinner disputes a thing of the past. The straightforward process means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
- Ideal for Meal Prep and Effortless Weeknight Dinners. If you’re searching for a recipe that supports a healthy lifestyle and simplifies your week, these oven-baked marinated chicken tenders are your answer. They are incredibly convenient for meal prepping, allowing you to cook a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Pair them with your favorite vibrant dipping sauce and a medley of roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced, and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time. Think about the possibilities: wraps, salads, pasta dishes – these tenders are incredibly versatile!
- Consistently Tender and Wonderfully Juicy Every Time. The secret to achieving exceptionally moist and tender chicken tenders lies in the marination. By allowing the chicken to soak in a flavorful marinade, the meat absorbs moisture and flavor deeply, preventing it from drying out during baking. While a minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, marinating overnight yields the most spectacular results, allowing the robust flavors to truly permeate the chicken breast tenderloins. This crucial step ensures a consistently delicious and tender texture that will have everyone reaching for more. Do not skip this!
- A Healthier Alternative Without Sacrificing Flavor. Unlike deep-fried chicken tenders, our oven-baked version offers a significantly healthier profile. By opting for baking, you drastically reduce the fat content while still achieving a delightful texture and rich flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite comfort food with a guilt-free twist. Plus, with no breading, you’re cutting down on unnecessary carbohydrates and gluten, catering to various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
- Highly Customizable to Suit Your Taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While the core marinade provides a fantastic foundation, you can easily tweak it to match your personal preferences. Want a little kick? Add some chili flakes or hot sauce. Craving a different herb profile? Toss in fresh rosemary or thyme. The chicken tenders serve as a perfect canvas for culinary creativity, ensuring that you can enjoy a slightly different flavor experience each time you make them.
In a rush and don’t have time for extensive marinating? No worries! Explore our Doritos chicken tenders recipe for a quick and flavorful alternative.
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Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
Crafting the perfect batch of oven-baked marinated chicken tenders requires just a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some smart substitutions to keep your cooking flexible and convenient.
- Chicken Tenderloins: The star of our dish! Chicken tenderloins are naturally lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for this recipe. You can use either fresh or frozen tenderloins. If opting for frozen, ensure they are thawed thoroughly before marinating. Keep in mind that frozen tenders may require a longer marinating time, ideally at least 8 hours, to fully absorb the flavors and achieve optimal tenderness. For extra convenience, you can also cut chicken breasts into tender-sized strips.
- Italian Salad Dressing: This is the foundation of our flavorful marinade, providing a harmonious blend of herbs, spices, and tangy notes. It acts as both a tenderizer and a flavor booster. Store-bought Italian dressing works wonderfully for convenience. For those who prefer a homemade touch and wish to control ingredients, making your own Italian dressing from scratch is a fantastic option. Look for dressings with a good balance of oil and vinegar, and minimal added sugars.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil is essential for basting the chicken and vegetables, promoting even cooking and helping them achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish. Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor, but any neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil or grapeseed oil can also be used effectively, especially if you prefer a milder taste profile.
Optional Additions for a Complete Meal
Transform your chicken tenders into a full sheet pan dinner by adding these versatile optional ingredients:
- Potatoes: Hearty and satisfying, potatoes roast beautifully alongside the chicken. Scrubbed clean and cut into small 1-inch cubes, they will cook through evenly and become delightfully tender. Varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work particularly well for their creamy texture and thin skins.
- Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans add a touch of vibrant color and essential nutrients to your meal. They can be added directly to the baking sheet with the chicken and potatoes. If you prefer your green beans with a bit more snap and firmness, consider adding them during the last 10-12 minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
- All-Purpose Seasoning: While the Italian dressing provides ample flavor, a sprinkle of all-purpose seasoning can enhance the overall taste of both the chicken and vegetables. Kinder’s The Blend is a popular choice for its balanced profile, but feel free to use your favorite brand or even a simple mix of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This allows for a customized flavor experience.
🎯 Pro Tip: Mastering Your Chicken Prep
Did you know you can easily create your own chicken tenders from larger chicken breasts? This can be a great way to save money and ensure uniform sizing. For detailed guidance on how to properly prepare and cut chicken breasts into tenderloins, check out our expert tips!
Recipe Variations to Ignite Your Palate
Unlock new flavor dimensions with these exciting twists on our classic oven-baked marinated chicken tenders:
- Embrace the Heat: Make it Spicy. For those who love a bit of a kick, infuse your chicken with some heat. Simply add a teaspoon or two of your favorite hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the tenderloin marinade. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level for a vibrant and fiery flavor explosion.
- Achieve Extra Crispy Perfection. If you adore crispy chicken but want to stick with baking, you can still achieve that satisfying crunch. After marinating and discarding the dressing, lightly dredge your chicken tenders in a mixture of seasoned flour or a gluten-free breading before baking. Alternatively, follow the specific recipe directions for our extra crispy Shake ‘n Bake chicken tenders for a guaranteed crispy coating.
- Boost the Flavor Profile. Elevate the natural taste of the chicken by incorporating additional seasonings into the marinade or directly onto the tenders before baking. A teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a blend of dried herbs like oregano and basil can add incredible depth and complexity, transforming the simple chicken into a gourmet delight.
- Explore Different Marinades. While Italian dressing is fantastic, don’t limit yourself! Experiment with other marinades for varied flavor experiences. Teriyaki sauce can offer a sweet and savory Asian twist, while a lemon-herb marinade (lemon juice, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, garlic) provides a bright and zesty profile. A simple yogurt-based marinade can also tenderize beautifully and impart a subtle tang.
- Add a Citrusy Zest. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice over the chicken tenders after baking can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing finish. The acidity cuts through the richness and enhances the overall taste, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Kitchen Equipment for Perfect Tenders
Preparing these delicious oven-baked marinated chicken tenders requires minimal equipment, making this recipe accessible even for novice cooks. Having the right tools ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process, leading to perfectly tender and flavorful results every time.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is essential for roasting the chicken and any accompanying vegetables. The rim prevents juices and oils from dripping into your oven, while a large surface area allows ingredients to spread out, promoting even cooking and browning. For best results, use a light-colored sheet to avoid over-browning.
- Glass Container or Ziploc Bag: These are indispensable for marinating the chicken. A glass dish with a lid provides an airtight seal, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged in the marinade. Alternatively, a heavy-duty Ziploc bag is excellent for efficiency, as it allows you to massage the marinade into the chicken thoroughly and takes up less space in the refrigerator. Whichever you choose, ensure it’s food-safe and can be sealed tightly.
- Non-stick Cooking Spray, Parchment Paper, or Silpat Silicone Sheet: To prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, you’ll need one of these options for your baking sheet. Non-stick cooking spray is a quick solution. Parchment paper provides a disposable, non-stick surface, and a reusable Silpat silicone sheet offers an eco-friendly and consistently non-stick alternative. Choose the option that best suits your preference for convenience and sustainability.
- Meat Thermometer: While not strictly required, a reliable instant-read meat thermometer is highly recommended. It’s the most accurate way to ensure your chicken tenders reach the safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) without overcooking, guaranteeing juicy and safe results every time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Oven-Baked Marinated Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to create a mouth-watering meal that’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare.
The Art of Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Marinating is the secret to tender, juicy, and flavor-packed chicken tenders. This step ensures that every bite is infused with deliciousness.
1. Seasoning the chicken. Begin by placing your chicken tenderloins into a clean glass dish or a sturdy, resealable Ziploc bag. Pour the Italian salad dressing over the chicken, ensuring that all the chicken strips are completely coated and submerged in the dressing. This even coverage is key for uniform flavor absorption. Close the lid or tightly seal the bag, removing as much air as possible.
2. Allow the chicken to marinate. Transfer the dish or bag of marinated tenders to the refrigerator. Allow them to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but for the best results and deepest flavor, aim for 6-12 hours. I often prepare the marinade in the morning, letting it work its magic throughout the day so the chicken is ready to cook by dinner time. This extended marination time significantly enhances both the tenderness and flavor of the meat.
3. Prepare for baking. Before you proceed to baking, it’s crucial to discard the used marinade. For food safety, never reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken. While some recipes suggest rinsing chicken, for this recipe, simply remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and pat dry with paper towels if you desire a slightly crisper exterior.
Prep for Effortless Oven Baking
Getting your baking sheet ready is a simple step that ensures your chicken and vegetables cook perfectly and clean-up is a breeze.
1. Baking preparation. Preheat your oven to a robust 400ºF (200ºC). This higher temperature helps the chicken cook through quickly and develop a lovely exterior. To prepare your baking sheet, you have a few options: you can lightly spray it with non-stick cooking oil, line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup, or use a reusable Silpat silicone baking mat for an eco-friendly non-stick surface. Choose the method that best suits your preference.
2. Arrange and season. Carefully place the marinated chicken tenderloins onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. If you are including potatoes, add them to the baking sheet as well, spreading them out for even roasting. If using green beans, you can add them at this stage for a softer texture. For a firmer green bean, hold off and add them during the last 10-12 minutes of baking. Drizzle all the vegetables with a tablespoon or two of olive oil and lightly season them with your preferred all-purpose seasoning, or simply salt and pepper. This helps them caramelize and adds another layer of flavor.
3. Bake to perfection. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the tenders at 400ºF (200ºC) for approximately 23-28 minutes. The exact baking time can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders and your oven’s calibration. The most reliable way to ensure doneness is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) when measured at the thickest part of the tenderloin. I suggest checking the temperature after 20 minutes to prevent overcooking.
While the chicken is baking, you can also check the doneness of your potatoes. They should be tender when pierced with a fork, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Once everything is done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
These oven-baked marinated chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes and sauces, making them a hit with both kids and adults. For a fresh and tangy dipping sauce that offers a delightful alternative to traditional options, consider mixing a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. This creates a light, herbaceous, and refreshing complement to the savory chicken.
Beyond this, classic dipping sauces like ranch dressing, a smoky homemade BBQ sauce, or a vibrant spicy honey mustard are always popular choices that cater to various tastes. For a complete and balanced meal, serve your tenders with a crisp, vibrant garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or additional roasted vegetables such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, or carrots. If you cooked them alongside potatoes and green beans on the same sheet pan, you already have a perfect one-pan dinner!
To round out the meal, offer refreshing beverages. Simple fruit juices like apple or orange juice are always a hit, or for a more sophisticated touch, iced tea or sparkling water with a hint of citrus can be delightful. Consider adding a warm crusty bread or fluffy quinoa for a more filling meal. These tenders also make fantastic additions to wraps, sandwiches, or sliced over a bed of mixed greens for a healthy lunch. The possibilities are endless!
Passionately cooking with chicken tenderloins? Be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes: our classic baked chicken tenderloin recipe (a delicious no-breading option!), crispy breaded pancake batter chicken tenders made in the oven, or our sensational KFC copycat Nashville chicken tenders recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Chicken Tenders
Here are answers to some common questions to help you achieve perfect oven-baked marinated chicken tenders every time.
The most effective way to ensure your chicken tenders remain wonderfully moist and tender during baking is to marinate them. Marinating, especially overnight, helps the meat absorb moisture and flavors, which prevents it from drying out in the oven. Additionally, always make sure you avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to pull them out of the oven as soon as they reach the safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
For these oven-baked marinated chicken tenders, it’s best to bake them uncovered. Baking uncovered allows the exterior of the chicken to develop a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly crisp texture. If you’re concerned about the chicken drying out, you can brush it lightly with olive oil or butter before baking, or halfway through, but covering it will steam the chicken, preventing that desired exterior.
For a balance of crispy exterior and moist interior, it’s generally better to bake chicken tenders at 400ºF (200ºC). This higher temperature ensures quick cooking and helps develop a nice sear. However, if you are concerned about the chicken drying out, or if your tenders are particularly thin, you can bake them at 350ºF (175ºC) and add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Regardless of the temperature, always ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) in the center before removing it from the oven.
At 400ºF (200ºC), chicken tenders typically take about 20-25 minutes to bake. However, this can vary based on the thickness and size of your specific chicken pieces. Always confirm doneness with an instant-read meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 165ºF (74ºC) at the thickest part. Begin checking around the 20-minute mark to prevent overcooking and ensure tender, juicy results.
Any leftover oven-baked marinated chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, arrange them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 400ºF (200ºC) until they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) – this helps maintain their texture better than microwaving. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the frozen tenders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating them in the oven as directed above.
More Culinary Inspiration from The Feathered Nester:
- Simple & Delicious Baked Chicken Tenderloins
- Homemade Shake and Bake Chicken Recipe
- Effortless Slow Cooker Sirloin Tip Roast Recipe
- Hearty Chuck Roast Dutch Oven Dinner
If you tried this mouthwatering oven-baked marinated chicken tender recipe or any other recipe from our collection, we’d love to hear from you! Please leave a 🌟 star rating and share your experience in the 📝 comments section below. Your feedback helps us grow and inspires other home cooks. Thanks for stopping by and happy cooking!
Oven Baked Marinated Chicken Tenders
Renae Gerhardstein
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- ▢ Baking Sheet
- ▢ Ziplock bag or Glass Container – to marinade chicken
- ▢ non-stick cooking spray, parchment paper, or Silpat silicone sheet
Ingredients
- ▢ 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins fresh or frozen (for frozen, see notes below)
- ▢ 1½ cups Italian salad dressing prepared (store-bought or homemade)
- ▢ 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
Optional Additions
- ▢ 4 medium potatoes scrubbed and cut into 1-inch diced cubes
- ▢ 3 cups green beans fresh or frozen (for frozen, see notes below)
- ▢ all-purpose seasoning (e.g., Kinder’s The Blend, or salt, pepper, garlic powder)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Prepare your baking sheet by either spraying it with cooking oil, lining it with parchment paper, or using a Silpat silicone sheet for a non-stick surface.
- Place the chicken tenders into a glass dish or a sturdy Ziploc bag. Pour the Italian salad dressing over the chicken, ensuring all strips are fully submerged and coated. Seal the container or bag.
- Refrigerate the chicken in the marinade for 6-12 hours for optimal flavor and tenderness. Marinating overnight is highly recommended.
- Once marinated, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade (do not reuse).
- Arrange the chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. If using, add the diced potatoes and green beans (if you prefer them softer) to the same sheet, spreading them out. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and lightly season everything with all-purpose seasoning. If you prefer firmer green beans, add them during the last 10-12 minutes of baking.
Baking Instructions
- Bake the chicken tenders at 400ºF (200ºC) for 23-28 minutes. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) in the center. Begin checking the chicken’s temperature after 20 minutes. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow to rest for a few minutes. Serve the oven-baked marinated chicken tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard, and your preferred side dishes.
Notes
- For tips on how to cut whole chicken breasts into tenderloins, refer to our guide on how to cut chicken!
Recipe Variations:
- Make it spicy: Add a teaspoon or two of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the tenderloin marinade for an extra kick.
- Extra crispy chicken tenders: After marinating, follow the instructions for our extra crispy Shake ‘n Bake chicken tenders.
- Add more flavor: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, or a blend of dried herbs into the marinade or directly onto the tenders before baking.
- If using frozen chicken tenders, ensure they are thawed before marinating. You may also extend the marinade time to at least 8 hours for best results.
Storing Instructions:
- Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- To reheat, bake them in the oven at 400ºF (200ºC) until they are thoroughly reheated to an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
- For longer storage, freeze the tenders for up to three months in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking as directed above.