The Best Blackened Chicken Tenders – 10-Minute Recipe

If you love bold flavors and crave a quick, easy, and healthy chicken recipe, then blackened chicken tenders are the perfect dish for you. This flavorful, smoky, and slightly spicy recipe brings the taste of your favorite Cajun-inspired chicken tenders right into your kitchen. Plus, it’s a healthier and more affordable alternative to restaurant versions. In this article, we will walk you through how to make juicy, tender blackened chicken tenders that are sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe

Blackened chicken tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe is a quick and simple way to prepare chicken with bold flavors, making it an ideal meal for busy weekdays or meal prepping. You can use the chicken tenders in wraps, bowls, salads, tacos, or just as a main dish with a side of vegetables and rice. The best part is that this dish is low-carb, making it suitable for a variety of diets. If you’re looking for a flavorful yet healthy chicken option, blackened chicken tenders are your answer.

Ingredients for Blackened Chicken Tenders

To create the perfect blackened chicken tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Tenderloins: These small, lean pieces of chicken are perfect for this recipe. They cook quickly and are tender, making them ideal for pan-frying.

• Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken tenders. You can also use other neutral oils like avocado or grapeseed oil.

• Cayenne Pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the seasoning blend. Adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.

• Dried Thyme: Provides a savory, herbal flavor that enhances the blackening seasoning.

• Dried Oregano: Contributes an earthy and pungent flavor to balance the other spices.

• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a sharp, flavorful bite.

• Garlic Powder: A great way to add garlic flavor to the seasoning blend without the need for fresh garlic.

• Paprika: For a smoky flavor and rich red color. You can use sweet, smoked, or hot paprika, depending on your preference.

• Kosher Salt: Helps to season the chicken. If you use table salt, halve the amount as it’s saltier than kosher salt.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Blackened Chicken Tenders

If you’re missing an ingredient or need alternatives, here are a few ideas:
• For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and replace it with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the heat.
• If you prefer fresh herbs over dried, fresh thyme and oregano can be used in place of the dried versions. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried variety.
• For a bit more garlic flavor, add a small amount of onion powder to the seasoning mix.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Blackened Chicken Tenders

Making blackened chicken tenders is a simple process that involves just a few easy steps:

1. Combine all the spices—cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and kosher salt—in a small bowl to create the blackening spice mix.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan.
3. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Coat each piece evenly with the blackening spice mixture, ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned.
4. Place the chicken tenders in the hot skillet and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on one side, until the chicken turns golden brown.
5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, checking with an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Blackened Chicken Tenders

To achieve perfectly blackened chicken tenders, follow these tips:
• Work in batches: If you’re making a large batch, don’t overcrowd the pan. Leave enough space between the chicken tenders to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
• Taste the seasoning: Before coating the chicken, taste the blackening spice mix. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more cayenne pepper for heat or garlic powder for a deeper flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken tenders cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. If overcooked, they can become dry. Check the internal temperature early to avoid this.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Blackened Chicken Tenders

Blackened chicken tenders are versatile and pair well with various side dishes and toppings:
• For a hearty meal, serve the tenders alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted potatoes.
• Add blackened chicken to a salad for extra protein. A Greek salad or arugula caprese salad would complement the smoky flavor of the chicken perfectly.
• You can also pair the chicken with a creamy sauce like cilantro crema or creamy dill sauce for added richness.
• For a low-carb meal, try pairing the chicken with cauliflower rice or a grain bowl to balance the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Blackened Chicken Tenders

To store your leftover blackened chicken tenders:
• In the Fridge: Place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: If you want to store the chicken for longer, you can freeze it for up to 6 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and then warm it up in the pan, air fryer, or microwave.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 380°F for a few minutes or on the stovetop with a little oil over medium heat. You can also microwave the chicken in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, blackened chicken tenders are an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal prep option, or a tasty snack, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its smoky, spicy seasoning and juicy chicken, it’s bound to become a family favorite. The best part? You can pair it with virtually anything — from fresh salads to roasted vegetables — and it can be stored and reheated with ease. So, give this recipe a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!

FAQs About Blackened Chicken Tenders

More Relevant Recipes

• Chicken and Roasted Potato Bowl
• Mediterranean Chicken Wraps
• The Best Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

Print