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Blackened Chicken Tenders

Blackened chicken tenders are prepared by coating chicken strips with bold spices and then cooking them at high heat to develop a crispy, smoky crust. The tenders are pan-seared or grilled until golden brown, resulting in a tender interior contrasted by a spicy, crunchy exterior. The finished dish has a vibrant, textured appearance with a satisfying smoky aroma.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins trimmed and patted dry
  • 2 tbsp paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful spice mixture.
  2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss well to coat each piece evenly with the spice blend. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering, then add the olive oil, swirling to coat the surface.
  4. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the skillet, spacing them out to avoid overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes, until the edges start to blacken and become crispy.
  5. Flip the tenders using tongs or a spatula, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through internally, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) if you check with a thermometer.
  6. Remove the tenders from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a minute for perfect juiciness.
  7. Serve the blackened chicken tenders hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or side, and enjoy the crispy, smoky texture with a spicy kick.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika. Adjust cayenne for milder or spicier results. Be vigilant while cooking high heat to prevent burning the spices.