Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This baked barbecue chicken tenders recipe is your new go-to for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. Forget greasy fried chicken – these baked tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with smoky barbecue flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a satisfying lunch, this recipe is a winner for everyone. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow dish, beat the egg. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip the floured tender into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tender thoroughly in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
Add the Barbecue Sauce: During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the chicken tenders generously with your favorite barbecue sauce. This adds extra flavor and a beautiful glossy finish.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. These baked barbecue chicken tenders are fantastic on their own, but they're also delicious served with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and crispy breading. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use panko breadcrumbs: For extra crispy chicken, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended.
- Adjust baking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders and your oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Get creative with your barbecue sauce: Experiment with different flavors! Spicy, sweet, smoky – the possibilities are endless.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders: Mix honey and garlic powder into your barbecue sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Use your favorite buffalo wing sauce instead of barbecue sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving (approximately 3 chicken tenders) is:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe delivers a healthy and delicious meal the whole family will love. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking that's quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying. So ditch the takeout and try this recipe tonight! You won't regret it.