Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly golden, crispy chicken tender that's bursting with zesty Caesar flavor - without the guilt of deep frying! These Oven Baked Chicken Caesar Tenders are about to revolutionize your weeknight dinner game, offering restaurant-quality taste right from your own kitchen. Prepare to transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform coating mixture.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.
- Brush each chicken tender with Caesar dressing, ensuring an even light coating on all sides. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick and add extra flavor.
- Dredge each Caesar-dressed chicken tender into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure a complete and even coating.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each tender to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and maintain moisture.
- Serve hot with additional Caesar dressing on the side for dipping, and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Tips
- Pat your chicken tenders completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for the crunchiest exterior
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each tender space to brown evenly
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken at 165°F
- Let the tenders rest after baking to lock in moisture
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil to your breadcrumb mixture
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
