If you’re wondering how long to bake chicken tenderloins at 350°F, the answer is simple. Baking them for about 20 minutes should do the trick, but this can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F for safety.
Baking at 350°F helps the tenderloins cook evenly without drying out. This is the sweet spot for keeping the chicken moist and tender. For thicker pieces, you may need to add a few extra minutes, so be sure to keep an eye on them.
Checking the chicken after 20 minutes ensures it’s done. If the internal temperature is at 165°F, your chicken is ready to eat.
How Long to Bake Chicken Tenderloins at 350°F
To bake chicken tenderloins, cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Thicker pieces may need a bit more time.
The exact time will depend on how thick the tenderloins are. Thicker pieces may take a bit longer to cook all the way through, so it’s always a good idea to check. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary.
If your oven runs hot or cool, the cooking time might change a little. Also, if you’re using a convection oven, the cooking time will likely be shorter, so keep an eye on them.
It’s always good practice to check your chicken after 20 minutes. At that point, you can see if it’s done or if it needs a little more time.
Why 350°F is the Sweet Spot for Baking Chicken Tenderloins?
Baking chicken tenderloins at 350°F helps cook them evenly. This temperature allows the chicken to stay moist and tender, not dry out. It’s the perfect balance — hot enough to cook the chicken quickly but not so hot that it toughens the meat.
If you bake at a higher temperature, like 400°F, the chicken might cook too fast on the outside, leaving it dry. But baking at 350°F keeps the meat juicy and tender inside, with just the right amount of browning outside.
Pro Tip for Juicy Chicken Tenderloins
If you want extra juicy tenderloins, try covering them with foil for the first part of baking. The foil helps lock in moisture, keeping the chicken soft and tender. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the chicken brown and develop a nice texture.
How to Tell When Chicken Tenderloins Are Fully Cooked
- Check the Internal Temperature
To make sure your chicken tenderloins are cooked properly, check the internal temperature. They are safe to eat when the temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the meat. A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the temperature.
If you don’t have a thermometer, there are other ways to tell. You can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to see if the juices run clear. If the juices are still pink, the chicken needs a bit more time in the oven.
- Other Signs of Doneness
When chicken is fully cooked, it will be white all the way through. Undercooked chicken will still have some pink in the center. Another sign is texture—cooked chicken will feel firm, while undercooked chicken will be soft and squishy.
It’s always a good idea to check the chicken in a few places to make sure it’s fully cooked. Even if one part looks done, another part might still need a little more time. This is especially important for thicker tenderloins.
Why a Meat Thermometer is Your Best Friend
- Accurate Cooking Every Time
A meat thermometer is the most reliable tool for making sure your chicken is cooked right. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures you don’t overcook or undercook your chicken. With just a quick check of the thermometer, you’ll know if the chicken is ready to eat.
Without a thermometer, you may have to rely on other methods like cutting into the chicken or checking the juices. But those can sometimes be tricky and might not give you the same peace of mind. Using a thermometer ensures you cook your chicken to the perfect temperature every time.
Pro Tip: Check Early to Avoid Overcooking
If you’re new to cooking chicken tenderloins, check the temperature a few minutes before the recommended cooking time. This will help you get a feel for how your oven works and prevent overcooking. Remember, once chicken hits 165°F, it’s done!
Baking Chicken Tenderloins at Different Temperatures
- Bake Time at 375°F, 400°F, and 425°F
When you bake chicken tenderloins at 375°F, expect it to take around 20 minutes. If you increase the temperature to 400°F, it’ll take about 18 minutes. At 425°F, it cooks even faster but can dry out quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
The higher the temperature, the faster the chicken cooks. But, if you’re not careful, it could end up a bit dry.
- Which Temperature is Best?
For the juiciest chicken, 350°F is usually the best. It allows the chicken to cook evenly without getting too dry. However, if you’re in a rush, you can use 400°F. Just be sure to check the chicken after 15-18 minutes to avoid overcooking.
If you want crispy edges, 425°F can work. But it requires careful attention to prevent the chicken from drying out.
How to Adjust for Thicker Chicken Tenderloins
- Thicker Pieces Need More Time
If your chicken tenderloins are thicker than usual, they’ll need more time to cook. You might have to add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the usual baking time. To make sure they’re fully cooked, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Thicker tenderloins will take longer to cook through, so it’s a good idea to check them. The thermometer will give you a clear reading, ensuring they’re safe to eat.
You can also learn more about How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 425°F for Fast, Juicy Chicken
Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Tenderloins
- Marinating Chicken for Extra Flavor
Marinating chicken is an easy way to add more flavor. Try marinating for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. A simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs can make all the difference.
- Adding Moisture During Baking
To keep your chicken juicy, cover it with foil while baking. This helps the chicken hold in moisture as it cooks. After about 15 minutes, you can remove the foil for the last few minutes to let the chicken brown slightly.
How to Prevent Dry Chicken Tenderloins
- Avoid Overcooking
One of the biggest mistakes is cooking the chicken too long. Check the temperature after about 20 minutes. When it reaches 165°F, it’s ready to come out.
- Use Foil for Moisture
Wrapping the chicken in foil keeps it moist during baking. After about half the cooking time, remove the foil. This helps the chicken brown and get a bit of crispness on the outside.
How to Serve and Pair Your Chicken Tenderloins
What Sides Go Well with Baked Chicken Tenderloins?
Baked chicken tenderloins are versatile and pair well with many sides. Try serving them with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or mashed potatoes. If you want a filling meal, rice or quinoa also make great options.
Sauce Ideas for Chicken Tenderloins
A good sauce can take your chicken tenderloins to the next level. BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dip are all great choices. For something more tangy, try a tomato-based sauce or a garlic butter dip.
Meal Prep Ideas for Chicken Tenderloins
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftover chicken tenderloins, store them in an airtight container. Let the chicken cool completely before putting it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
Can You Freeze Baked Chicken Tenderloins?
Yes, you can freeze your chicken tenderloins if you want to keep them longer. Just make sure the chicken is cooled and wrapped tightly before freezing. Frozen chicken will stay good for up to 3 months.
FAQs About Baking Chicken Tenderloins
- How long to bake chicken tenderloins at 375°F?
Chicken tenderloins take about 20 minutes at 375°F. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they’ve reached 165°F. - Can I bake frozen chicken tenderloins?
Yes, you can bake frozen tenderloins. It’ll take about 30-35 minutes at 375°F, but check the internal temperature. - How do I prevent chicken tenderloins from drying out?
Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a thermometer and cover it with foil for the first half of baking. - Can I bake chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet?
Yes, using a baking sheet is the easiest method. Just make sure to line it with parchment paper or use a light coating of oil.