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Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders

Discover the vibrant and health-conscious delight of Zesty Baked Chili Lime Chicken Tenders! This recipe combines juicy chicken tenders marinated in a zesty mix of lime and spicy chili, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a quick snack, these tenders are versatile enough to pair with salads, grain bowls, or enjoyed on their own. Embrace healthy eating without sacrificing taste with this deliciously satisfying dish!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) chicken tenders

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 2 limes

Zest of 1 lime

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

    Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

      Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

        Coat the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the fridge. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. One by one, take each chicken tender and coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing down gently to ensure an even coating.

          Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between them to allow for even cooking.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy. You can flip halfway through for even browning.

              Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 50 mins | 4 servings