Easy Baked Chicken Tenders (No Breading, vegan)

These Baked Chicken Tenders are a simple and delicious twist on the traditional recipe with a breadcrumb coating. This easy recipe uses vegan chicken tenders and a flavorful spice mix as simple ingredients. It makes a perfect quick dinner for the whole family and is amazing also for meal prep.

What are Chicken Tenders

Traditional Chicken tenders, also known as chicken fingers or chicken strips, are boneless and skinless cuts of chicken breast meat.

They are typically located underneath the breast along the rib cage, and because of their lean and tender nature, they are well-suited for various cooking methods. Chicken tenders are often used to make dishes like chicken tenders or strips, which can be breaded and fried, baked, or grilled.

They are popular in many cuisines and are commonly served as finger food or as part of meals for both children and adults.

Why are Chicken Tenders so popular?

Chicken tenders have become a popular choice in recent times due to their several benefits. Firstly, they are boneless, which makes them easy to eat, especially for children and those who prefer a hassle-free dining experience. Secondly, they are versatile and can be prepared in various ways, such as being breaded and fried, baked, grilled, or even used in salads and wraps. This versatility appeals to a wide range of taste preferences. Lastly, chicken tenders have a mild flavor compared to other parts of the chicken, making them appealing to a broad audience. Their neutral taste allows them to easily take on the flavors of marinades, seasonings, or sauces, which adds to their popularity.

Furthermore, chicken tenders are often a crowd-pleaser, which is why they are suitable for various occasions and settings. They are often served at family gatherings, parties, or as a quick meal. Their universal appeal makes them a go-to option for such events. Additionally, chicken tenders are very kid-friendly, thanks to their convenient size, lack of bones, and mild flavor. Many kids enjoy the taste and texture, making them a popular option for family meals.

Lastly, the widespread accessibility of chicken tenders adds to their popularity. They are readily available in supermarkets and restaurants, making them a convenient choice for busy individuals or families looking for a quick and satisfying meal option. In summary, the combination of their ease of eating, versatility, mild flavor, crowd-pleasing nature, kid-friendly appeal, and widespread accessibility contributes to the enduring popularity of chicken tenders.

Why do people do not want breaded chicken tenders?

Chicken tenders are a popular dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. However, some people choose to avoid breaded chicken tenders for several reasons. Breaded chicken tenders are often deep-fried, and people may prefer non-breaded alternatives.

In addition, people with low-carb or gluten-free diets, may avoid breaded chicken tenders because of the breading itself. The breading typically contains flour or breadcrumbs, which can be problematic for people with dietary restrictions. Choosing non-breaded versions allows individuals to adhere to their dietary preferences and enjoy chicken tenders without any concerns.

Another reason why some people may choose non-breaded chicken tenders is texture preference. 

Ingredients needed to make Baked Chicken Tenders without breading

For those who want to enjoy a version of Chicken tenders without compromising on flavor, here is a recipe that you might want to try. To make these oven-baked chicken tenders without any breading, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 vegan chicken filets, cut into tenders: Choose plant-based chicken alternatives that are suitable for baking and have a tender texture.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder: This will add a savory and aromatic flavor to the chicken tenders.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: This will provide a slightly sweet and pungent taste to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for a healthier option to coat the chicken tenders and keep them moist.
• 2 teaspoons paprika: This will give the chicken tenders a vibrant color and a smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: This herb will add a subtle earthy and minty flavor to the
• Salt, black pepper to taste

How to make Baked Chicken Tenders without Breading

To prepare, mix together all the dry ingredients (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, chili powder, brown sugar, salt and black pepper) in a small bowl.

Next, transfer the vegan chicken tenders to a large casserole dish or onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Coat them with the extra vegan olive oil.

Rub in the dry mixture until they are fully covered.

Preheat oven to 430 F. When hot, give the casserole dish or baking sheet with the seasoned vegan chicken tenders into the oven. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown. The cooking time may vary depending on what kind of chicken you use.

What to serve with Baked Chicken Tenders

Pair your baked chicken tenders with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or asparagus for a well-balanced and nutritious meal.

Opt for a light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to add a refreshing touch.

For a heartier option, consider serving the chicken tenders with quinoa, brown rice, or mashed sweet potatoes to round out the plate with grains.

What sauces to use with Baked Chicken Tenders

Enhance the flavor of your baked crispy chicken tenders with a variety of delicious sauces.

Classic choices like honey mustard, barbecue, and ranch are always crowd-pleasers, providing a perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, or creaminess. For a tangy kick, try a zesty tzatziki or a garlic aioli.

Experiment with a homemade buffalo sauce for a spicy twist or a mango salsa for a fruity, refreshing accompaniment. The key is to offer a selection to cater to different taste preferences, allowing everyone to customize their chicken tender experience. Or just go with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to store Baked Chicken Tenders

To keep your baked chicken tenders fresh and delicious, it’s important to store them properly. The following tips can help you maintain their quality:

Start by allowing the chicken tenders to cool down to room temperature before storing them. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make them soggy. Once they’ve cooled down, you can decide whether to refrigerate or freeze them, depending on how soon you plan to consume them.

If you plan to eat the chicken tenders within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Choose a suitable container for food storage to avoid any odors affecting the chicken. If you need to stack the chicken tenders, place parchment paper or wax paper between the layers. This will stop them from sticking together and will help maintain their texture.

If you want to store the chicken tenders for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap them individually or separate the layers with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer-safe, airtight container or use a vacuum-sealed bag. When freezing, it’s important to label the storage container with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen chicken tenders are best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal quality.

More easy chicken recipes to try

• Chicken Fajitas – Simple and Delicious!
• Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe [creamy and simple]
• Amazing Texas Chicken Spaghetti Recipe with Southern flavors
• Grilled Chicken Salad
• Crispy Chicken

Share your remakes of these Baked Chicken Tenders without breading on Instagram or Facebook.

Enjoy, Florian.