In just a few easy steps, you can make the best Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders (without breading)! Just follow the quick and easy recipe below to make the plumpest, tastiest chicken tenderloins. No thawing required!.
Chicken tenders are a family favorite for good reason – they’re quick, easy, and delicious. But knowing exactly how long to cook frozen chicken tenders can be tricky. Undercook them and you’ll end up with rubbery, soggy texture. Overcook them and you’ll have dry, tough chicken. Follow this definitive guide to achieve the perfect balance of crispy outside and juicy interior when oven-baking frozen chicken tenders.
Key Factors that Impact Cook Time
There are a few key factors that determine how long frozen chicken tenders need to cook:
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Size and thickness – Larger, thicker tenders will require more time than smaller, thinner ones.
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Oven accuracy – Every oven runs a bit differently. Get an oven thermometer to verify accuracy.
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Desired crispness – Extra crispy vs lightly golden brown will require adjusted cook times
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Type of tenders: Cooking times are different for raw and pre-cooked frozen tenders. This guide focuses on pre-cooked.
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Baking sheet placement – Arrange in a single layer for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked frozen chicken tenders every time:
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Proper preheating allows tenders to cook evenly.
2. Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lightly grease if desired
3. Arrange Tenders
Place frozen tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet, without overcrowding.
4. Season (Optional)
Sprinkle with your favorite seasoning blend. Try garlic powder, Italian blend, or smoked paprika.
5. Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes at 400°F.
6. Flip and Bake
Remove sheet, flip tenders, and bake 10-13 more minutes until browned and 165°F internal temperature.
7. Check Doneness
Test doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into thickest area. It should reach 165°F.
8. Let Rest
Allow to rest 1-2 minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips for Crispy, Juicy Perfection
Follow these extra tips and tricks for the best oven-baked frozen chicken tenders:
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For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
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An elevated baking rack promotes air circulation for crispier texture.
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Preheat the baking sheet for a crispy boost.
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Lightly brush tenders with oil before baking.
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Use the convection setting to speed up cook time.
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Brush with honey or barbecue sauce at the end.
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Apply seasonings before baking to add flavor.
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Do not overcrowd the pan – air circulation prevents sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are answers to the most common frozen chicken tender cooking queries:
Can I cook frozen tenders without thawing?
Yes, cooking from frozen is best. Thawing leads to uneven cooking.
What oven temperature is best?
400°F allows for crispiness. Lower temps increase cook time.
How do I know when they’re fully cooked?
Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer. 165°F is ideal.
Can I use convection baking?
Yes, reduce temp by 25°F and monitor closely as they cook faster.
Why are they burnt outside but frozen inside?
Lower oven temp 25°F and use middle rack to prevent burning.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Elevated baking rack, preheated sheet, and convection setting help.
Can I use a toaster oven?
Yes, but cook at 400°F watching closely. May need less time.
How long do cooked tenders last refrigerated?
3-4 days in an airtight container. Allow to fully cool before storing.
Can I reheat cooked chicken tenders?
Yes, in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness. Heat to 165°F.
What are good dipping sauces?
Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, sweet chili, etc.
Do different frozen tender types cook the same?
Mostly, but follow specific package instructions for any variations.
What if I overcook them?
Overcooking leads to dry, tough texture. Use a meat thermometer to prevent.
Satisfying Meals with Chicken Tenders
Now that you know precisely how long to cook frozen chicken tenders in the oven, try these delicious ways to use them:
- Parmesan Garlic Tenders with Marinara Sauce
- Honey BBQ Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries
- Buffalo Chicken Tender Wraps with Blue Cheese
- Crispy Chicken Tender Salad with Ranch
- Chicken Tender Subs with Melted Cheese
- Chicken Tender Tacos with Avocado Salsa
The possibilities are endless! With the simple and reliable cooking method above, you’ll have a tasty protein ready in no time.
So next time hunger strikes, look no further than a bag of frozen chicken tenders. In around 20-25 minutes baked at 400°F, you’ll have a meal the whole family will devour. Perfectly crispy and juicy oven-baked chicken tenders are just minutes away!
Recipe Variations and Substitutions:
- Olive oil—I used olive oil, but you can use ghee, avocado oil, or any other cooking oil you like. Mayo works great as well.
Frozen Chicken Tenderloins In The Air fryer:
Nothing beats the convenience of having frozen chicken tenderloins in the freezer. I always keep a bag of them in my freezer for those busy nights when I have no idea what to cook for dinner and need something done fast. I love how you don’t have to thaw the chicken tenderloins before cooking them. No matter how hard I try, I can never remember to take them out to thaw!.