Baked BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders: These are the main protein for the dish, tender and quick to cook.

BBQ sauce: Provides the primary flavor and a sticky coating for the chicken.

Garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory garlic flavor.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a mild onion flavor.

Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor.

Olive oil: Helps the coating stick to the chicken and adds moisture.

To ensure your chicken tenders come out perfectly crispy, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before coating them with olive oil. This will help the bbq sauce mixture adhere better and create a more even, crispy coating. Additionally, flipping the tenders halfway through baking can promote even cooking and crispiness on both sides.

• chicken tenders - Substitute with turkey tenders: Turkey tenders have a similar texture and can be used in the same way as chicken tenders.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a different but equally delicious flavor profile, adding a sweet and savory taste.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions can provide a similar flavor and add a bit of texture to the dish.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a bit of heat and a similar smoky flavor to the dish.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great alternative to olive oil.

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the coating soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• If you want to freeze the chicken tenders, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the chicken tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.

• To reheat refrigerated chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• For frozen chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the tenders directly from the freezer for 20-25 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken tenders in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

• Avoid microwaving the chicken tenders as it can make the coating soggy and the chicken rubbery.

• Serve reheated chicken tenders with extra bbq sauce on the side for dipping, or pair them with a fresh salad or vegetable side dish for a complete meal.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the tenders with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through.
  5. For an extra crispy finish, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If not heated through, continue in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Skillet Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the chicken tenders in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through and the coating is crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check for desired crispiness and warmth before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken tenders at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Mixing bowl: Utilized to combine the bbq sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the coated chicken tenders for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the correct amount of bbq sauce.

• Basting brush: Helps in coating the chicken tenders evenly with olive oil and the bbq sauce mixture.

• Tongs: Handy for handling the chicken tenders without making a mess.

• Serving platter: Used to serve the hot, baked chicken tenders.

• Knife: If needed, to trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken tenders before cooking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out the bbq sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika ahead of time.

Use pre-cut chicken tenders: Save time by buying chicken tenders that are already cut and ready to use.

Line baking sheet with parchment paper: This makes cleanup quick and easy.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping the chicken.

Mix sauce in a large bowl: Use a large bowl to easily coat the chicken tenders without making a mess.