Bring a Kalmes Foods favorite to family dinner with these oven-baked chicken tenders made with Superb Blend® Seasoned Breading Mix. A buttermilk marinade helps the coating cling, while a wire rack lets hot air circulate around the chicken as it bakes.
Serves: 6 | Prep: 15 minutes | Marinate: at least 30 minutes | Bake: 18–22 minutes | Total: about 70 minutes with the minimum marinade and resting time.
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 lbs chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into evenly sized strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups Superb Blend® Seasoned Breading Mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Cooking spray
- Your favorite dipping sauces, for serving
How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders
1. Marinate the chicken
Place the chicken in a bowl and coat with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
2. Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment rated for this temperature. Place an oven-safe wire rack on the sheet and coat it with cooking spray.
3. Prepare the breading
Place Superb Blend® Seasoned Breading Mix in a shallow dish. Stir in the olive oil or melted butter until evenly distributed.
4. Coat the tenders
Lift the chicken out of the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Press each piece into the breading to coat all sides. Arrange on the rack with space between pieces. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Discard leftover marinade and breading that touched raw chicken.
5. Bake until cooked through
Bake for about 18–22 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Check the thickest part with a food thermometer: chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Continue cooking if needed, regardless of the suggested baking time.
6. Rest and serve
Let the tenders rest for 2–3 minutes, then serve promptly for the best texture.
Tips for a Golden Coating
- Cut evenly: Similar-sized strips cook more consistently.
- Leave room: Space between tenders helps air circulate.
- Use an oven-safe rack: It keeps the chicken raised above the pan.
- Check temperature: Use a thermometer rather than relying on coating color.
What to Serve with Chicken Tenders
Set out honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or buffalo sauce for dipping. Add a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, fries, or mac and cheese to round out dinner.
Do I Need to Deep Fry These Tenders?
No. This recipe uses a 425°F oven, an oven-safe wire rack, and a light coating of oil or cooking spray. The texture will differ from deep-fried chicken, but you can make a golden breaded coating without a deep fryer.
Stock Your Kitchen with Superb Blend®
Ready for your next chicken dinner? Shop Superb Blend® Seasoned Breading Mix in the 5 lb bag and keep a Kalmes Foods favorite on hand.
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