Why BBQ Chicken Tenders Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, BBQ chicken tenders are a must-make recipe.
They’re incredibly versatile, satisfying both kids and adults alike. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making each bite irresistible.
Plus, they’re easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more time enjoying with family and friends. Whether served with fresh veggies or a side of fries, these tenders elevate any meal.
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!
Ingredients of BBQ Chicken Tenders
When it comes to whipping up BBQ chicken tenders, gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward a mouthwatering experience. Let’s be real: the combination of juicy chicken and flavorful barbecue sauce is a game-changer. You’ll want to have these items ready to go before you plunge into the cooking process.
Trust me, once you taste these tenders, they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup prepared barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups coarse dry breadcrumbs (preferably whole-wheat)
- Olive oil or canola oil cooking spray
Now, a few things to keep in mind about these ingredients. When it comes to the barbecue sauce, feel free to choose your favorite brand or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Dijon mustard adds a nice kick, but if you’re not a fan, you can swap it for yellow mustard—no judgment here. And those chicken tenders? They’re your canvas. If you can’t find tenders, chicken breasts cut into strips work just as well.
Finally, if whole-wheat breadcrumbs aren’t available, regular ones will do just fine. The goal here is to enjoy the process and have fun in the kitchen, right? Cooking should be a joyful experience, even if it means a little flour on your shirt.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Tenders
Making BBQ chicken tenders is a breeze, and I promise, the end result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen. First things first, let’s talk about that marinade. In a large bowl, you’ll want to whisk together 1 cup of your favorite prepared barbecue sauce, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of honey. This mixture is the secret sauce—literally—so don’t skip out on it.
Now, take 1 ½ lbs of chicken tenders and, if any are particularly large, slice them in half lengthwise. Toss those tenders into the bowl with the marinade, making sure they’re all coated. Then, cover it up and let them chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. This step is essential; it allows all those flavors to soak right into the chicken, making every bite so, so tasty.
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 450°F. That’s the magic number for getting those tenders perfectly crispy. Next, grab a large rimmed baking sheet and coat it generously with cooking spray—this is where the tenders will bake, and we definitely don’t want them sticking.
Now, in three separate shallow dishes, set up your dredging station: in one, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of fresh ground pepper. In the second dish, lightly beat 2 large eggs. And in the third, pour in 1 ¾ cups of coarse dry breadcrumbs (whole-wheat, if you have them).
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to get your hands a little messy. Take each tender, first coat it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the egg, letting the extra drip off before rolling it in the breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re well-coated; this is what’ll give you that delightful crunch.
Place the tenders on the prepared baking sheet, and don’t forget to generously spray both sides with cooking spray—this helps them crisp up beautifully. Bake them for 10 minutes, then flip them over and let them bake for another 10 minutes. By the end, you’ll have a plate of chicken tenders that aren’t only crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside.
Serve them up with that reserved barbecue sauce for dipping, and you’re in for a treat. Honestly, you might just find yourself doing a little happy dance in the kitchen.
BBQ Chicken Tenders Substitutions & Variations
Have you ever thought about how easy it’s to switch things up with BBQ chicken tenders? You can try different marinades, like teriyaki sauce or a spicy chipotle blend, to give them a unique twist.
For a healthier option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, or bake them without breading for a lighter version. Want a smoky flavor? Add smoked paprika to your breadcrumbs.
You can even substitute chicken tenders with turkey or tofu for a different protein. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite seasonings and sauces; the possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Tenders
Exploring different flavors for BBQ chicken tenders opens up a world of delicious possibilities, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal even further.
I love serving these tenders with a crisp coleslaw for a revitalizing crunch or a light potato salad for heartiness. Grilled corn on the cob adds a sweet touch, while baked beans offer a savory contrast.
For a lighter option, I often include a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette. Finally, don’t forget some warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce—it’s the perfect finishing touch to a delightful meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing BBQ chicken tenders can be straightforward, a few additional tips can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish.
First, make certain to marinate the chicken long enough; it really helps deepen the flavor.
If you want extra crunch, consider double-breading the tenders. Simply dip them in egg and breadcrumbs twice!
Also, don’t rush the cooking time; it guarantees the tenders are cooked through without burning.
Finally, feel free to customize the barbecue sauce with your favorite spices for a unique twist.
Trust me, these tweaks will elevate your BBQ chicken tenders to the next level!