Assalamu Alaikum and welcome! Today we have Oven Baked Chicken Tenders …a delicious, health and flavourful dish that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
These chicken tenders are a fantastic way to break your fast with something light yet satisfying. They’re crispy on the outside tender on the inside and packed with flavour thanks to a blend of spices and a golden breadcrumb coating. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them guilt-free! Even my little ones love them (and that’s a win in my book!). These chicken tenders are a must try.
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- For the chicken tenders:
- 500g chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a lovely flavour)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chilli powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp plain flour (for coating)
- For serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Your favourite dipping sauce (try yoghurt, ketchup, or a spicy mayo)
Method
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. - Prep the coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chilli powder (if using), salt, and pepper. - Coat the chicken:
Set up a coating station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture. Dip each chicken tender first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s well coated. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking tray. - Bake to perfection:
Lightly spray or drizzle the chicken tenders with a little olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden and cooked through. - Serve and enjoy:
Transfer the chicken tenders to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Serve with lemon wedges and your favourite dipping sauce.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Iftar
- Healthy and baked: These tenders are crispy and delicious without the guilt of deep-frying.
- Packed with flavour: The blend of spices and Parmesan cheese adds a burst of flavour that’s hard to resist.
- Quick and easy: It takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy mums like me.
Tips…
- Make it ahead: You can coat the chicken tenders in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Switch up the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different spices – smoked paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of Italian herbs work beautifully.
- Kid-friendly: Let the kids help with coating the chicken – it’s a fun way to get them involved in the kitchen.
Note from me…
These oven baked chicken tenders have become a Ramadan staple in our house. Give it a try and see you’ll want to make it over and over again!
I hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any special twists you like to add. Bless you all!
Much love,
Shahena 💕