23 Easy and Healthy Diabetic Baked Chicken Tender Recipes You’ll Love

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean giving up delicious comfort foods—it simply means making smarter choices in the kitchen.

Chicken tenders are a family favorite, but traditional fried versions are often loaded with refined carbs, unhealthy oils, and excess sodium.

The good news? You can still enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken tenders without compromising your health.

That’s where 23 diabetic baked chicken tender recipes come in. These recipes skip the fryer and embrace oven-baked goodness, using fresh herbs, spices, wholesome coatings, and low-carb marinades to keep meals both tasty and blood-sugar-friendly.

From Mediterranean-inspired flavors to bold Cajun spices and even crunchy nut-based crusts, there’s something here for every craving.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal-prep options, or a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings, these recipes will keep your plate exciting and your blood sugar balanced.

23 Easy and Healthy Diabetic Baked Chicken Tender Recipes You’ll Love

Chicken tenders don’t have to be off-limits for those managing diabetes.

By choosing baked over fried and focusing on low-carb, nutrient-rich ingredients, you can enjoy satisfying meals that are as good for your health as they are for your taste buds.

These 23 diabetic baked chicken tender recipes prove that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. From zesty lemon-pepper to creamy garlic-yogurt marinades, there’s a tender recipe here to match every mood and mealtime.

Pair them with fresh vegetables, whole grains, or hearty salads, and you’ll have a diabetes-friendly meal that the whole family will love.

Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders

These herb-crusted baked chicken tenders are a wholesome, diabetic-friendly version of a family favorite.

Instead of frying, the chicken is oven-baked to golden perfection with a flavorful coating of whole-wheat breadcrumbs and aromatic herbs.

Packed with lean protein and seasoned without excess salt, this dish makes for a satisfying main course without spiking blood sugar levels.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound skinless chicken breast tenders
• 1 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, low-sodium variety)
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly coat the surface with olive oil spray.
2. In a shallow dish, combine whole-wheat breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and almond milk.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to encourage crispiness.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.

These herb-crusted baked chicken tenders are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor without being heavy on sodium or unhealthy fats.

Pair them with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a diabetes-friendly dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Lemon-Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders

Bright, zesty, and light, these lemon-garlic baked chicken tenders are perfect for those managing diabetes.

The fresh lemon juice and garlic marinade adds a burst of flavor, while oven baking keeps the dish low in fat.

This recipe is quick to prepare, yet tastes gourmet enough for a family dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, or use salt substitute)
• Olive oil spray for baking

Instructions:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, pepper, and optional salt. Stir to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, tossing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.
4. Arrange the marinated chicken tenders on the tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

These lemon-garlic baked chicken tenders are light, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying.

They make a great option for diabetics seeking a low-carb, heart-healthy meal. Pair with steamed broccoli or quinoa for a balanced dinner.

Almond-Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders

Almond-crusted baked chicken tenders bring a nutty crunch to the dinner table without the need for refined breadcrumbs.

Almond flour and crushed almonds make this recipe low-carb and diabetes-friendly, while paprika and garlic add a bold kick of flavor.

Perfect for those looking for a grain-free, high-protein option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup finely crushed unsalted almonds
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix almond flour, crushed almonds, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and black pepper.
3. In another small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and almond milk.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat with the almond flour mixture. Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

These almond-crusted baked chicken tenders are crunchy, flavorful, and diabetes-friendly, making them a smart alternative to traditional breaded chicken.

Serve with a fresh cucumber salad or roasted zucchini for a nutritious and filling meal.

Spicy Paprika Baked Chicken Tenders

These spicy paprika baked chicken tenders are a bold, flavorful option for anyone who enjoys a little heat without compromising on health.

With a smoky kick from paprika and cayenne pepper, this diabetic-friendly recipe avoids breading and focuses on clean, simple seasoning.

They’re juicy, high in protein, and perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and optional salt. Mix into a paste.
3. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked and slightly charred at the edges.
6. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

These spicy paprika baked chicken tenders deliver big flavor while staying diabetes-friendly.

Pair them with roasted Brussels sprouts or a cool cucumber-yogurt dip to balance the heat.

Mustard-Dill Baked Chicken Tenders

Tangy and savory, mustard-dill baked chicken tenders bring a unique twist to the dinner table.

Dijon mustard provides zesty sharpness, while fresh dill adds a refreshing herbal touch.

This recipe is low-carb, heart-healthy, and full of flavor without the need for breading or frying.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (low-sodium, no added sugar)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, olive oil, dill, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat thoroughly with the mustard-dill mixture.
4. Arrange coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking tray.
5. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping once, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 2 minutes before serving.

These mustard-dill baked chicken tenders are light, flavorful, and diabetes-friendly.

They pair wonderfully with roasted carrots, green beans, or a crisp garden salad.

Coconut-Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders

These coconut-crusted baked chicken tenders bring a tropical twist while staying diabetic-friendly.

Unsweetened shredded coconut and almond flour create a naturally crunchy coating without excess carbs.

The light sweetness of coconut pairs perfectly with lean chicken, making this a delicious guilt-free meal option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine shredded coconut, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together egg and almond milk.
4. Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture, then roll in the coconut-almond mixture until fully coated.
5. Place coated tenders on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil for crispness.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

These coconut-crusted baked chicken tenders are crunchy, satisfying, and naturally low in carbs.

They make an excellent option for diabetics seeking something unique—try them with a side of roasted asparagus or a light cucumber salad.

Turmeric-Ginger Baked Chicken Tenders

These turmeric-ginger baked chicken tenders are loaded with flavor and natural anti-inflammatory benefits, making them perfect for those managing diabetes.

The warm spices and golden color of turmeric pair beautifully with the freshness of ginger, creating a healthy, aromatic meal that’s both comforting and energizing.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of half a lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, turmeric, ginger, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, and lemon juice to make a marinade.
3. Coat the chicken tenders in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
4. Arrange chicken tenders on the prepared baking tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20–22 minutes, turning once halfway, until fully cooked.
6. Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Golden, flavorful, and wholesome, these turmeric-ginger baked chicken tenders are a wonderful way to enjoy a diabetes-friendly meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Serve with roasted cauliflower or sautéed spinach for a complete plate.

Pesto-Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders

These pesto-parmesan baked chicken tenders are bursting with Italian-inspired flavors.

Fresh basil pesto (without added sugar) and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese give these tenders a rich taste, while oven baking keeps them light and diabetic-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil pesto (use a low-sodium, no-sugar-added version)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, reduced-sodium)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine pesto, olive oil, Parmesan, and black pepper.
3. Coat the chicken tenders with the pesto mixture and let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
4. Place chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil for extra crispness.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.

These pesto-parmesan baked chicken tenders are savory, cheesy, and full of vibrant basil flavor without being heavy on carbs.

They pair perfectly with zucchini noodles or roasted cherry tomatoes for a low-glycemic Italian-inspired dinner.

Balsamic-Glazed Baked Chicken Tenders

These balsamic-glazed baked chicken tenders offer a rich, tangy-sweet flavor without relying on sugar.

By using a reduced balsamic glaze made with a touch of garlic and herbs, the tenders become caramelized and savory while still being suitable for a diabetic-friendly diet.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, and black pepper.
3. Coat chicken tenders in the balsamic mixture and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
4. Arrange chicken on the baking tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, basting once halfway through with any remaining marinade, until fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
6. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

These balsamic-glazed baked chicken tenders are tangy, juicy, and packed with flavor without excess carbs or sugar.

Pair them with roasted green beans or a quinoa salad for a balanced diabetic-friendly dinner.

Sesame-Soy Baked Chicken Tenders

These sesame-soy baked chicken tenders are a diabetes-friendly twist on Asian-inspired flavors.

Instead of using sugary sauces, this recipe uses low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic to create a savory umami flavor that’s light yet satisfying.

A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds crunch without the need for heavy breading.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unsweetened)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders to the marinade, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil.
4. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on the tray.
5. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until cooked through.
6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the tenders before serving.

These sesame-soy baked chicken tenders bring bold flavor without extra sugar or carbs.

They taste amazing with stir-fried bok choy, steamed broccoli, or a cauliflower rice bowl.

Chili-Lime Baked Chicken Tenders

These chili-lime baked chicken tenders are tangy, zesty, and just a little spicy.

The fresh lime juice brightens the flavor while chili powder adds a smoky kick, creating a light yet bold meal.

They’re low-carb, diabetes-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, zest, olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for 20 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Arrange the chicken tenders on the tray and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly golden.
5. Allow to rest for 2 minutes before serving.

These chili-lime baked chicken tenders are refreshing, flavorful, and healthy.

They pair wonderfully with roasted bell peppers or a crisp cucumber-avocado salad for a balanced plate.

Mediterranean Baked Chicken Tenders

These Mediterranean baked chicken tenders are infused with classic flavors like olive oil, oregano, garlic, and lemon.

Light, wholesome, and rich in heart-healthy ingredients, this recipe is ideal for diabetics who want a balanced meal with bold Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, or use a salt substitute)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, pepper, paprika, and salt.
2. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Marinate for 20 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
4. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer on the tray.
5. Bake for 20–22 minutes, turning once, until cooked through and golden.
6. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

These Mediterranean baked chicken tenders are fragrant, juicy, and diabetes-friendly.

Serve them with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower couscous for a complete Mediterranean-style meal.

Garlic-Herb Yogurt Baked Chicken Tenders

These garlic-herb yogurt baked chicken tenders use a light yogurt marinade to keep the chicken extra juicy and flavorful.

The yogurt tenderizes the meat while garlic and fresh herbs infuse it with aromatic goodness.

This diabetes-friendly recipe is high in protein, low in carbs, and a great choice for a healthy, filling meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened, low-fat)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, parsley, oregano, paprika, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Add chicken tenders to the mixture, toss to coat, cover, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for extra tenderness).
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Arrange marinated chicken tenders on the sheet.
5. Bake for 22–25 minutes, flipping once, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
6. Allow to rest for 2 minutes before serving.

These garlic-herb yogurt baked chicken tenders are creamy, savory, and perfectly moist.

Pair them with a fresh cucumber salad or roasted zucchini for a light and diabetes-friendly dinner.

Rosemary-Orange Baked Chicken Tenders

These rosemary-orange baked chicken tenders bring a citrusy twist with a hint of herbaceous flavor.

The fresh orange juice brightens the dish while rosemary adds depth, making this a refreshing, diabetes-friendly recipe that’s light but full of character.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (no sugar added)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, zest, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders to the marinade, toss well, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
4. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer and bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping once, until tender and golden.
5. Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving.

These rosemary-orange baked chicken tenders are light, aromatic, and slightly citrusy, making them a refreshing option for diabetics.

Serve with roasted carrots or steamed broccoli for a colorful, balanced plate.

Curry-Spiced Baked Chicken Tenders

Curry-spiced baked chicken tenders are warm, bold, and full of flavor.

With turmeric, coriander, and a touch of cumin, this recipe adds a comforting Indian-inspired twist while staying low in carbs and diabetic-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, and pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange on the baking tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once, until golden and fully cooked.
6. Let rest before serving.

These curry-spiced baked chicken tenders are fragrant, savory, and satisfying, with just the right amount of spice.

They go perfectly with roasted cauliflower, sautéed spinach, or a side of quinoa for a hearty diabetic-friendly dinner.

Italian Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Chicken Tenders

These Italian sun-dried tomato baked chicken tenders are rich, tangy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

Using sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, this recipe keeps carbs low and taste levels high, making it an excellent choice for a diabetic-friendly dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (packed in olive oil, drained and finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic, paprika, and pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders and toss until fully coated. Marinate for at least 20 minutes.
4. Arrange chicken on the baking tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until cooked through.
6. Allow to cool for 2 minutes before serving.

These sun-dried tomato baked chicken tenders are savory and robust, perfect alongside a simple green salad or roasted zucchini for a diabetes-friendly Mediterranean-style dinner.

Smoked Paprika & Olive Oil Baked Chicken Tenders

These smoked paprika & olive oil baked chicken tenders are bold, smoky, and incredibly satisfying without the need for breading.

This simple yet flavorful recipe uses clean ingredients to create a juicy, diabetic-friendly meal that works for both weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and cayenne.
3. Add chicken tenders and toss until evenly coated.
4. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until the chicken is juicy and slightly charred.
6. Remove from oven and let rest before serving.

These smoky baked chicken tenders are a flavorful, diabetes-friendly option that pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts or a cauliflower mash.

Spinach & Feta Baked Chicken Tenders

These spinach & feta baked chicken tenders are inspired by Greek cuisine, combining the savory richness of feta cheese with the freshness of spinach.

They’re oven-baked, low in carbs, and perfect for diabetics looking for a protein-packed, flavorful option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• ½ cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken tenders with the mixture, pressing the spinach-feta topping onto each piece.
4. Arrange the tenders on the baking tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is lightly golden.
6. Let rest briefly before serving.

These spinach & feta baked chicken tenders are creamy, savory, and nutritious.

Serve with roasted eggplant or a cucumber-tomato salad for a wholesome, diabetic-friendly Mediterranean dinner.

Honey-Mustard Light Baked Chicken Tenders

These honey-mustard light baked chicken tenders give you all the flavor of a classic honey-mustard dish—without the sugar overload.

A touch of sugar-free honey substitute blends with tangy Dijon mustard to create a diabetes-friendly glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (low-sodium, no added sugar)
• 1 tablespoon sugar-free honey substitute (or very small amount of raw honey if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey substitute, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Coat the chicken tenders in the mixture and let marinate for 20 minutes.
4. Arrange chicken on the baking tray and bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.

These honey-mustard light baked chicken tenders are tangy, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced for a diabetic-friendly dinner.

Pair with roasted asparagus or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.

Cajun-Spiced Baked Chicken Tenders

These Cajun-spiced baked chicken tenders bring bold, Southern-inspired flavor without the need for frying.

With paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs, this spice blend adds a kick while keeping carbs low.

It’s a diabetes-friendly option that works perfectly for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.
3. Coat the chicken tenders with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange tenders on the baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until fully cooked.
5. Allow to rest before serving.

These Cajun-spiced baked chicken tenders are smoky, spicy, and satisfying. Serve with roasted cauliflower rice or sautéed green beans for a hearty, diabetes-friendly dinner.

Ginger-Soy Baked Chicken Tenders

These ginger-soy baked chicken tenders are infused with Asian-inspired flavors, offering a savory, aromatic, and slightly tangy taste without added sugars.

Fresh ginger and low-sodium soy sauce create a light glaze that makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Place chicken tenders on the baking tray and bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
5. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

These ginger-soy baked chicken tenders are tender, flavorful, and diabetes-friendly.

Serve them with steamed broccoli, bok choy, or a side of cauliflower fried rice for a balanced and tasty dinner.

Lemon-Pepper Baked Chicken Tenders

Simple, zesty, and fresh, these lemon-pepper baked chicken tenders are a classic recipe that fits perfectly into a diabetic-friendly meal plan.

With bright lemon juice and cracked black pepper, this dish is flavorful without relying on excess sodium or carbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Coat the chicken tenders in the mixture and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
4. Place chicken tenders on the baking tray in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway, until juicy and golden.
6. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

These lemon-pepper baked chicken tenders are light, flavorful, and perfect for pairing with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a diabetes-friendly meal.

Garlic-Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy, cheesy, and savory, these garlic-Parmesan crusted baked chicken tenders offer a healthier take on a comfort food favorite.

Whole-wheat crumbs (or almond flour for low-carb) mixed with Parmesan and garlic create a golden crust without the need for frying—making this recipe diabetic-friendly and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• ½ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (reduced-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs (or almond flour), Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together egg and almond milk.
4. Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to stick.
5. Place tenders on the baking tray and spray lightly with olive oil.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until crispy and golden.

These garlic-Parmesan crusted baked chicken tenders are crispy outside and juicy inside—an excellent diabetes-friendly alternative to fried chicken strips.

Pair with roasted zucchini fries or a spinach salad for a balanced dinner.