Easy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
This 5-ingredient oven baked chicken tenders recipe is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner for busy families. Made with simple pantry staples, it delivers juicy, tender chicken coated in a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Perfect for anyone looking for a quick chicken recipe, this dish is a go-to for family dinners, meal prep, and comforting homemade meals with minimal effort and cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy Minimal prep and only one dish required
- Family-friendly Mild, creamy flavors kids love
- Budget-friendly Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Versatile Works with rice, pasta, potatoes, or veggies
- Great for meal prep Reheats beautifully for leftovers
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds raw chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray or oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a glass casserole dish.
Arrange the raw chicken tenders in a single layer in the dish.
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, making sure each piece is well coated.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil for 1 to 3 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy baked chicken recipe pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed rice or buttered noodles
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- Fresh salad or warm dinner rolls
Tips & Variations
- For a healthier version, replace half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt
- Add a teaspoon of honey for a slightly sweet flavor kids enjoy
- Swap Italian seasoning with ranch seasoning for a different twist
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for extra crunch
- Use this recipe for meal prep chicken slice and add to salads, wraps, or sandwiches
Benefits of This Easy Chicken Recipe
This recipe gives you a high-protein, satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect when you want something homemade, comforting, and quick without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy topping locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
