Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Tenders | Bright & Easy Oven Dinner

This easy recipe for lemon pepper baked chicken tenders delivers big flavor without deep frying. If you’re looking for healthy chicken finger dinner ideas that the whole family will actually enjoy, this one checks every box. The tenders are juicy on the inside, perfectly crisp on the outside, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Baking them in the oven keeps things simple, clean, and light, no greasy stovetop splatters or long prep needed. They’re perfect for weeknight meals, lunchboxes, or quick appetizers. This is the kind of go-to chicken dinner that earns a permanent place in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Tender Dinner Ideas

Lemon pepper baked chicken tenders bring together bold citrus flavor with the kind of crispy coating you usually expect from fried food, but with a cleaner, oven-baked twist. It’s a recipe that works for busy nights, picky eaters, and even casual entertaining.

• Oven-baked for less oil and less mess
• Bright lemon pepper flavor makes it crave-worthy
• Prep and bake in under 30 minutes
• Customizable for spice levels and add-ins
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly

This dish is perfect for a quick dinner or light lunch. Pair it with a salad, potatoes, or even mac and cheese for a full plate. If you’re into one-pan meals too, try the chicken and rice bake for another easy winner.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Ingredients

You’ll need basic pantry items and fresh chicken to make these delicious tenders. Choose quality ingredients and fresh herbs when possible for the best results. Here’s what you need:

• 1½ pounds raw chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast sliced into strips)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (for crispy coating)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds savory flavor)
• 1½ tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning (for bold citrus and spice)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (for a balanced taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for color)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
• 2 large eggs (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons milk (helps the egg stick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (light brushing for crisping)
• Zest of 1 lemon (boosts the citrus flavor)
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

For more cozy classics with chicken, try this chicken pot pie with pie crust that’s flaky and creamy in all the right ways.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Tenders

Making lemon pepper chicken tenders in the oven is simple and quick. You’ll coat each tender with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, bake them until golden, and finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for fresh flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs with milk.
3. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mix. Press to help it stick.
5. Arrange tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil.
6. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Remove from the oven, zest a lemon over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley.

For another zesty dinner idea, check out this garlic Parmesan chicken scampi that pairs beautifully with rice.

What To Make With Chicken Tenders (Serving Suggestions)

These baked chicken tenders are delicious on their own but also shine when paired with creative sides. Whether you’re serving kids or adults, there are plenty of ways to make a complete meal.

• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
• Add mashed potatoes or seasoned rice for a comfort-style dinner.
• Tuck them into warm tortillas with lettuce and ranch for easy wraps.
• Slice and top over Caesar salad for a protein-packed lunch.
• Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or garlic aioli.

For a full plate that’s just as satisfying, this chicken and rice bake makes a great addition to your meal plan.

Chicken Tender Ideas (Variations & Customization)

This recipe is easy to tweak depending on your taste, dietary needs, or what’s in your pantry. Here are a few ideas to keep things interesting:

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Low Carb: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check your seasoning labels.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan and use a dairy-free breadcrumb blend.
• BBQ Twist: Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet-smoky glaze.

Feel free to combine a few options. For example, gluten-free and spicy makes a great game day snack.

What To Do With Chicken Tenders (Storage & Reheating)

Baked chicken tenders store well and reheat beautifully when done right. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

To reheat, place in a 375°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. For the microwave, use short bursts and add a small splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Chicken Strip Recipes (Pro Tips for Best Results)

Getting baked chicken tenders crispy and flavorful isn’t hard, but a few smart tips will make a noticeable difference in the final result.

• Use parchment paper: It prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Leave space between tenders so heat can circulate.
• Press the coating: After dredging, press the breadcrumb mix firmly onto each tender.
• Finish with lemon zest: Add this after baking to keep the flavor bright and fresh.

These tips help your tenders turn out golden and juicy every time.

Chicken Breast Tender Recipes (Common Mistakes to Avoid)

Even a simple recipe can go sideways without a little attention to detail. Avoid these common slip-ups for the best lemon pepper chicken tenders.

• Overbaking: Dry chicken is often the result of too much time in the oven. Check at 15 minutes.
• Skipping the oil: A light brush of olive oil helps crisp the coating in the oven.
• Forgetting to pat dry: Excess moisture on raw chicken can make the coating slide off.
• Under-seasoning: Be generous with lemon pepper and taste your breadcrumb mixture before coating.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures crispy, well-seasoned tenders that everyone will love.

Chicken Fingers Baked Recipe Conclusion

If you’re tired of deep-frying or bland baked chicken, these lemon pepper baked chicken tenders bring the best of both worlds. Crisp, golden, and packed with bright flavor, they’re easy enough for weeknights and tasty enough to serve on any occasion. Try them with your favorite dipping sauce or side, and make extra, leftovers don’t last long.

Pin this lemon pepper chicken recipe to save it for later and share it with someone who loves an easy chicken dinner.

FAQs About Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Tenders

Can I use frozen chicken tenders in this baked chicken finger recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them in the fridge before coating and baking. Frozen chicken won’t bake evenly and may water down your seasoning.

What temperature do you bake lemon pepper chicken tenders at?

Bake them at 400°F for the perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior. This temperature helps create a golden crust without drying the meat.

How do you keep baked chicken tenders moist?

Don’t overbake. Check doneness at 16 minutes and pull them when internal temp reaches 165°F. A light coating of olive oil before baking also helps lock in moisture.

What sides go best with lemon pepper chicken tender dinner ideas?

Serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, mac and cheese, or a crisp garden salad. You can also turn them into wraps or add to grain bowls for variety.

Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Tenders | Bright & Easy Oven Dinner

Author: Ellie Cooking Method: Oven Baked