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Chicken tenders have long been a beloved staple in households around the world. Their versatility makes them suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Traditionally, chicken tenders are often deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior that is hard to resist. However, the trend is shifting towards healthier cooking methods, and that's where our Zesty Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders come into play. This recipe introduces a refreshing twist on the classic, combining the zest of lime with the heat of chili to create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also nutritious.

Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders

Discover a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite with Zesty Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of lime and spices for a tasty and nutritious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Skip the frying and enjoy crispy, flavorful tenders baked to perfection. Marinated in a zesty blend and coated with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate experience!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips (tenders)

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)

Zest of 1 lime

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and lime zest until well blended. Add the chicken tenders into the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for the best flavor infusion.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly grease the surface with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

      Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Stir them together until evenly mixed.

        Coat the Chicken Tenders: Take the marinated chicken tenders out of the refrigerator. Remove each tender one at a time and allow any excess marinade to drip off. Dredge the tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure a good coating. Place the coated tenders onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

          Bake the Tenders: After all the chicken tenders are coated, lightly spray their tops with cooking spray for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is a lovely golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

            Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side and accompany with your favorite dipping sauces, such as spicy mayo or creamy avocado dip.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                30 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4