BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders are a total game-changer when it comes to weeknight dinners! I mean, who doesn’t love the combination of tender chicken with that smoky, sweet barbecue flavor? It’s like a party in your mouth! The best part? They’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy evenings or even casual gatherings. Just pop them in the oven, and in about 25 minutes, you’ll have juicy, crispy tenders that are sure to impress everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try this BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders recipe, it’ll quickly become a family favorite. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders – tender, juicy pieces of chicken that cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce – your favorite brand or homemade, this is where the smoky sweetness comes from!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – for that crunchy coating; you can use plain or seasoned, depending on your taste.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps the crust get golden.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for a subtle kick of flavor that complements the chicken and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the coating.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – gives a fantastic smoky flavor that enhances the barbecue taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors!
- Cooking spray – for that crispy finish; it helps the breading brown nicely in the oven.
How to Prepare BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the steps for making these mouthwatering BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders! You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a dish that packs such a punch in flavor. Just follow along, and you’ll have crispy, delicious tenders ready in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because a properly preheated oven ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly and develop that lovely golden-brown crust. Trust me, no one wants soggy tenders!
Prepare the Coating
Now, let’s whip up that delicious coating! In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Each ingredient plays a role: the breadcrumbs provide crunch, the cheese adds richness, and the spices bring in all that flavor. Mix everything together until well combined, and set it aside.
Breading the Chicken Tenders
Next, it’s time to bread those chicken tenders! Start by dipping each tender into the barbecue sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, take that saucy tender and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to cover it completely. This part is key—don’t rush it! The more evenly coated, the better the crunch. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking Instructions
Finally, spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray for that extra crispy finish. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and golden brown. Yum!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before you start breading to ensure even cooking. Frozen tenders may require a few extra minutes in the oven, so keep an eye on them.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
It really depends on your taste! I love a classic smoky barbecue sauce, but feel free to experiment with sweet, spicy, or even honey-based sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. Each will give a unique twist to your BBQ baked chicken tenders!
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken tenders and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just remember to spray them with cooking spray right before they go in the oven for that perfect crispy crunch.
Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Just double-check your barbecue sauce, as some brands may contain gluten.
What can I serve with BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders?
These tenders pair wonderfully with coleslaw, a fresh salad, or even sweet potato fries for a delicious meal. Don’t forget some extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders, which includes 4 tenders. You can expect around 320 calories, 12g of fat, 25g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 8g of sugar. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Tips for Success
To ensure your BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips! First, consider marinating the chicken in barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes before breading to enhance the flavor. If you have time, this really makes a difference! For a crispy finish, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones—they’re lighter and create a crunchier texture. If you’re looking for a faster method, you can also air fry the tenders at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Trust me, these tips will elevate your chicken tenders to the next level!
Variations
There are so many fun ways to mix things up with this BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders recipe! For a flavor twist, try using different barbecue sauces—like a tangy mustard-based sauce or a spicy chipotle sauce. Feeling adventurous? Add some heat by incorporating cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breadcrumb mixture. You could even switch things up by adding some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a fresh twist. If you want to go all out, consider creating a honey garlic glaze instead of traditional barbecue sauce for a sweet and savory combo. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions
These BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders are fantastic on their own, but they really shine when paired with the right sides! I love serving them with a refreshing coleslaw that adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the smoky chicken. A simple mixed green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette works beautifully too. For a heartier option, sweet potato fries or creamy mac and cheese make for a comforting sidekick. Don’t forget some extra barbecue sauce for dipping—it’s a must!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I recommend using an oven or air fryer to maintain that crispy texture—just preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make them soggy. Enjoy those leftovers just as much as the first time!
For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.
To learn more about the different types of barbecue sauces, check out Serious Eats.
Print
bbq baked chicken tenders recipe: 5 easy steps to success
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
BBQ Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken with a smoky barbecue sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender in barbecue sauce, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray for a crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve with additional barbecue sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for 30 minutes before breading.
- Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce for varied tastes.
- Serve with coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: bbq baked chicken tenders recipe, baked chicken tenders, barbecue chicken recipe
