Description
These blackened chicken tenders are a deliciously smoky, spicy, and savory dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Made with a flavorful homemade blackening spice mix and juicy chicken tenderloins, this recipe is perfect for meal prep, dinner, or a protein-packed snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Combine the cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and kosher salt to create the blackening spice mix.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and coat them evenly with the blackening spice mix.
- Cook the chicken on one side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper for a milder or spicier flavor.
- If using table salt, reduce the amount to half.
- For best results, cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- For a crispier result, try cooking in an air fryer at 380°F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (4 oz)
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Sodium: 133mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 73mg