Description
These Juicy Baked Chicken Tenderloins are packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. They’re seasoned to perfection, baked until golden, and incredibly tender. Whether you enjoy them on their own, in a salad, or as part of a meal, these chicken tenderloins will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
Optional Marinade (For Extra Flavor & Tenderness)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them bake evenly.Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. If using a marinade, mix the marinade ingredients in a separate bowl and let the chicken soak for 30 minutes before baking.Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking.Bake the Chicken
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Notes
- For Extra Juiciness: Cover the baking sheet with foil for the first half of baking to lock in moisture.
- For Crispy Edges: Broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes for a slight char.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serving Ideas: Serve over rice, with roasted vegetables, or in a salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: baked chicken tenderloins, oven-baked chicken, easy chicken dinner, healthy baked chicken, chicken tenderloin recipe, juicy chicken recipe, quick chicken dinner