What To Know
- These oven-baked BBQ chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun game day snack.
- They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce that’s simply irresistible.
- You can prepare the chicken tenders up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Craving juicy, flavorful chicken tenders but don’t want to fry them? Baking is a healthier and equally delicious alternative! These oven-baked BBQ chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun game day snack. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can buy them already cut into tenders, or cut them yourself for a more personalized size.
- Marinade: A simple marinade of soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder adds incredible flavor to the chicken.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a wonderfully crispy crust.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce. We recommend a thick and tangy sauce for the best results.
- Optional Extras: You can add some spice to your tenders with cayenne pepper or paprika. For a cheesy twist, try adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the breadcrumbs.
Getting Started:
1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch wide and 3 inches long. You can adjust the size based on your preference.
3. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken tenders and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for maximum flavor.
Creating the Crispy Crust:
1. Mix the breadcrumbs: In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with any additional seasonings like cayenne pepper or paprika. If you’re adding cheese, mix it in now.
2. Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade and let any excess drip off. One by one, dip each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s fully coated.
Baking to Perfection:
1. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
2. Bake until golden brown: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
The Finishing Touch:
1. Glaze with BBQ sauce: While the chicken is still hot, brush each tender with your favorite BBQ sauce. This will create a beautiful glaze and add even more flavor.
2. Serve immediately: Enjoy your delicious baked BBQ chicken tenders while they’re hot and crispy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: These tenders pair perfectly with classic side dishes like potato wedges, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese.
- Dips: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or honey mustard.
- Salads: Add a few chicken tenders to your favorite salad for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the tenders enough space to bake evenly and achieve that crispy texture.
- Don’t overbake: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through without becoming tough.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize your marinade and breadcrumbs with different herbs, spices, and cheeses.
Beyond the Basics:
- Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken tenders up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
- Freeze for later: Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the tenders in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Time to Get Cooking!
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, get ready to bake some incredible BBQ chicken tenders. Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! You can use regular breadcrumbs, seasoned breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers for a unique texture.
2. How long can I store the baked chicken tenders in the refrigerator?
You can store leftover baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I bake these tenders in a smaller oven?
Yes, you can adjust the baking time based on your oven’s size and heat distribution. Just keep an eye on the tenders and check for doneness.
4. What other sauces can I use besides BBQ sauce?
You can experiment with different sauces like honey sriracha, teriyaki, or even a simple honey mustard glaze.
5. Is it possible to make these chicken tenders air fryer-friendly?
Yes! You can skip the baking step and cook the breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.
