Easy BBQ Cajun Chicken Tenders Recipe
Make crispy, tangy, and spicy BBQ Cajun Chicken Tenders! This easy recipe is a healthy baked alternative to fried chicken, packed with flavor. Perfect for dinner!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (low sodium if preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup favorite BBQ sauce
- Optional fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Whisk or stir well until a uniform paste forms.
- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss thoroughly until all chicken tenders are evenly coated with the spice blend.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking and crisping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat each chicken tender with about half of your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Return the chicken to the oven and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the BBQ sauce is slightly caramelized and sticky. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your tenders.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven. Brush them with the remaining BBQ sauce for an extra glaze and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions: These tangy and spicy BBQ Cajun chicken tenders are fantastic served with a side of coleslaw, cornbread, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.
Storage: Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. For less heat, use a mild Cajun seasoning blend.
