Crispy, wholesome, and packed with flavor, these Oatmeal Crusted Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Coated in a golden crust of coarsely ground old-fashioned oats, seasoned with smoky paprika, garlic, and onion powder, these baked chicken tenders deliver all the crunch and taste of traditional fried versions but without the guilt. Perfectly paired with your favorite dipping sauce, theyβre easy to make, coming together in just 35 minutes, and are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether youβre meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, these protein-packed chicken tenders offer a satisfying, nutritious option thatβs as fun to eat as it is to make. Baking instead of frying keeps them light, while the optional olive oil spray ensures a perfectly crisp exterior.
Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Place the rolled oats in a food processor and pulse 3β5 times until they are coarsely ground (similar to breadcrumbs). Transfer the oats to a shallow dish.
In a separate shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
In a third shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined.
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Working one at a time, dredge each tender in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour.
Dip the floured chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
Finally, coat the chicken tender in the oatmeal mixture, pressing lightly to help the oats adhere. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Repeat the dredging process for all the chicken tenders.
Optionally, spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Flip the tenders over and bake for an additional 8β10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for 2β3 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Calories |
2253 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 105.8 g | 136% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.0 g | 110% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 668 mg | 223% | |
| Sodium | 5318 mg | 231% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 201.1 g | 73% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.5 g | 66% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.4 g | ||
| Protein | 127.8 g | 256% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.0 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 249 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 14.2 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 1950 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.