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Baked chicken tenders have become a beloved dish for families and food enthusiasts alike, celebrated for their versatility and appeal to both young palates and adult tastes. Their ease of preparation and the ability to customize flavors make them a go-to option for weeknight dinners, meal preps, or even a casual gathering with friends. Among the myriad of chicken tender recipes, Zesty Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders stand out with their unique flavor profile that marries the heat of chili with the refreshing zest of lime. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also aligns with health-conscious cooking practices, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge without the guilt.

Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders

Discover the delightful flavors of Zesty Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders, a perfect meal for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken with a zesty marinade featuring lime juice, honey, and a blend of spices that create a vibrant taste experience. Easy to prepare and healthy, these tenders are loved by both kids and adults. Serve them with fresh veggies or dipping sauces for a satisfying dinner or appetizer that will impress your family and friends.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to facilitate easy cleanup.

    Prepare Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture will be your zesty marinade.

      Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl containing the marinade, ensuring each tender is thoroughly coated. For best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a ziplock bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for maximum flavor, up to 2 hours.

        Coat Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to ensure an even and secure coating.

          Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are fully cooked (internal temperature should read 165°F / 74°C) and the coating is a beautiful golden brown.

              Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. These zesty tenders are delicious served alongside lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the chicken tenders on a colorful plate and add a small bowl of your preferred dipping sauce. Scatter lime wedges around the plate for a visually appealing presentation that highlights the dish’s zesty flavor.