Smoky Baked Chicken Tenderloins with Chili Rub | Bold & Easy Oven Dinner

This smoky baked chicken tenderloin recipe is perfect for quick dinners that don’t skimp on flavor. The bold chili rub adds depth while the oven baking method keeps the meat juicy and tender. Whether you’re looking for chicken tender dinner ideas or wondering what to do with chicken tenders, this dish checks all the boxes.

It’s healthy, fast, and full of flavor, with a satisfying bite that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. The best part? Everything comes together in just 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Smoky Baked Chicken Tenderloin Recipe

• Bold smoky chili rub with a kick of spice
• Ready in just 25 minutes for busy weeknights
• Oven-baked for a healthier twist on chicken strips
• Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or wraps
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients without added fuss

Ingredients for Smoky Baked Chicken Tenders

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenderloins, cleaned and patted dry
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for even baking and moisture
• 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder, for smoky depth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, adds warmth and color
• ½ teaspoon cumin, earthy flavor enhancer
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, for optional heat
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder, savory balance
• ½ teaspoon onion powder, for round flavor
• 1 teaspoon salt, to bring out the flavors
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, for mild spice
• Juice of ½ lime, optional for brightness

This flavor-packed rub creates a delicious crust while locking in moisture. You can serve it with a vibrant side like One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake for a complete dinner.

How to Make Smoky Chili Rubbed Chicken Tenderloins

1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the rub: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.
3. Season the chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, add lime juice if using, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the tenders. Toss to coat completely.
4. Arrange and bake: Spread the seasoned chicken tenderloins in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices and finish setting the flavor.

For another simple dinner idea, check out the Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe that’s also oven-baked and full of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Chili Rubbed Chicken Tenders

These smoky chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and work beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some serving ideas to complete your meal:

Serve them with cilantro-lime rice and roasted corn salad for a Southwestern-style dinner.

Slice and tuck them into warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema.

Pair with baked sweet potato fries and a simple green salad for a healthy and balanced plate.

Layer them over creamy mashed potatoes with sautéed green beans for a comfort food combo.

Serve with garlic butter pasta or couscous and a squeeze of lemon to lighten up the smoky heat.

These smoky baked chicken tenderloins also make a great protein option for grain bowls or meal prep lunches.

Chicken Tender Dinner Ideas – Variations & Customizations

This recipe is easy to adapt to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Try any of these ideas:

Sweet Heat Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the spice mix for a slightly sweet balance.

Zesty Citrus: Add lime zest to the rub for bright, smoky-citrus flavor.

Protein Swap: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs or small chicken breast strips instead of tenderloins.

Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice to keep it light.

Veggie Sheet Pan: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the pan for a one-pan meal with minimal cleanup.

You can make this chili-rubbed chicken recipe your own with simple tweaks.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Tenders

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken tenderloins in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, place the tenders in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water before covering with foil to keep them moist. You can also microwave them in 30-second bursts, turning as needed.

Avoid reheating too long to prevent them from drying out.

Pro Tips for Baked Chicken Tenderloins

Pat dry before seasoning: Always pat chicken dry with paper towels before applying the rub. This helps the spices stick and ensures better browning in the oven.

Use a hot oven: A 425°F oven helps lock in moisture and creates a nice crust without frying.

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each tender space so they roast instead of steaming.

Flip halfway: For even baking and better texture, flip the tenders halfway through cooking.

Let them rest: Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to seal in juices and avoid dryness.

These tips will help you achieve juicy, flavorful results every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Tender Recipes

Not drying the chicken: Starting with wet chicken leads to soggy seasoning and uneven baking.

Using too much oil: A light drizzle is all you need. Too much oil can make the rub slide off and affect texture.

Skipping the seasoning mix: Don’t use plain salt and pepper. The chili rub adds character to otherwise mild meat.

Overcooking: Chicken tenderloins are small and cook fast. Always use a meat thermometer to avoid drying them out.

Baking on a crowded tray: Give your chicken room. Overlapping tenderloins will steam instead of roast.

Avoid these issues and your smoky baked chicken tenderloins will be perfect every time.

What to Do With Chicken Tenders – Conclusion

This smoky chili-rubbed chicken tenderloin recipe is a fast and flavorful dinner that brings bold taste to the table without the hassle. With its crisp edges, juicy center, and adaptable flavor, it’s one of those meals with chicken tenders you’ll turn to again and again.

Don’t forget to Pin this recipe for later and share it with a friend who loves chicken dinners!

FAQs About Baked Chicken Tender Recipes

Can I bake chicken tenderloins without drying them out?

Yes. Bake them at a high temperature like 425°F for 18 to 22 minutes and avoid overcooking. Resting the meat after baking also keeps it juicy.

What temperature should chicken tenders be cooked to?

Chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for best accuracy and to prevent drying.

How long should I marinate chicken tenderloins for flavor?

For this dry rub recipe, no long marinade is needed. However, you can let the seasoned chicken rest in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes to boost flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, slice boneless skinless chicken breasts into strips of even size. Adjust baking time to about 25 minutes depending on thickness.

What side dishes go well with chili-rubbed chicken?

Great pairings include roasted veggies, seasoned rice, baked potatoes, or simple salads. You can also serve the tenders in wraps, tacos, or grain bowls for variety.

Smoky Baked Chicken Tenderloins with Chili Rub | Bold & Easy Oven Dinner

Author: Ellie Cooking Method: Oven Baked