Prepare mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders at home using an easy oven recipe. Marinate high-quality chicken strips in a mix of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes or longer. Coat them in olive oil and bake on a lined sheet until golden brown and tender (20-25 minutes). Create a simple homemade BBQ sauce by mixing ketchup, vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Pair the tenders with diverse sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, salads, or cornbread for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the oven before serving.
Looking for a mouthwatering dinner idea that’s easy to prepare? Try these delicious BBQ chicken tenders baked in the oven! This comprehensive guide covers everything from selecting the perfect ingredients, setting your oven to the ideal temperature, and marinating techniques. Learn how to create a tangy BBQ sauce to complement your tenders, along with serving suggestions and storage tips. Discover the ultimate BBQ Chicken Tenders In Oven Recipe for a satisfying home-cooked meal.
- Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Tenders
- Preparation Time and Oven Temperature
- Marinating the Chicken Tenders
- Cooking Method: Oven Baked Tenders
- Creating a Delicious BBQ Sauce
- Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Tenders
Creating mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders at home is easier than you think! For this recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients to transform your dinner routine. Start with high-quality chicken tenders as the star of the dish. Next, combine a mix of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. This blend will coat the tenders, infusing them with a smoky, sweet, and savory taste that’s hard to resist.
Don’t forget the other essential ingredients: olive oil for keeping the tenders juicy and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Preheat your oven to the specified temperature, toss the marinated chicken tenders in olive oil, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden brown and tender, ensuring they reach the internal temperature required for safety. The aroma that wafts from the oven will have your family or roommates begging for this delicious BBQ chicken tenders recipe!
Preparation Time and Oven Temperature
Preparing BBQ chicken tenders in the oven is a quick and delicious option for dinner, taking just 30-40 minutes from start to finish. The key to tender, juicy results lies in the preheating of your oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature ensures even cooking, allowing the chicken to marinate as it bakes, resulting in a mouthwatering crispy exterior and succulent interior.
For optimal preparation, prepare your tenders by patting them dry with a paper towel before coating them in a mixture of BBQ sauce and oil. This step helps achieve that coveted golden-brown crust while also preventing the tenders from drying out during baking.
Marinating the Chicken Tenders
Marinating is a key step in enhancing the flavor and tenderness of your BBQ chicken tenders. It’s an easy process that can transform simple chicken strips into mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meals. To begin, combine your favorite BBQ sauce with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy, like paprika or chili powder. Place the chicken tenders in a large ziplock bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—the longer they marinate, the more flavorful they’ll become. This simple step will not only add deliciousness but also help to break down some of the protein in the chicken, making it tenderer when cooked.
Cooking Method: Oven Baked Tenders
When it comes to preparing mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders, the oven-baked method is a simple yet effective approach. This technique allows for a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior that’s hard to beat. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature before you begin. Then, prepare your chicken tenders by coating them in a blend of flour, salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing space between each tender for even cooking. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the top, ensuring every piece is glistening and inviting. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce starts to caramelize, creating a delightful golden-brown crust.
Creating a Delicious BBQ Sauce
Creating a delicious BBQ sauce is an art that elevates your BBQ chicken tenders in oven recipe to new heights. Start by combining your favorite BBQ sauce base, such as ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. These foundational ingredients provide a rich, tangy flavor profile. Next, add in a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper to boost the savory notes. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, whether you prefer a sweet and smoky blend or a spicier kick. Simmer the mixture on low heat until it thickens slightly, allowing the flavors to meld together seamlessly. This homemade BBQ sauce not only enhances the taste of your oven-baked chicken tenders but also adds a personal touch to your culinary creation.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When it comes to serving delicious BBQ chicken tenders, there are numerous creative options to explore. For a hearty meal, serve them with a side of crispy coleslaw or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing for a perfect balance of textures. Pairing these tender, slow-cooked treats with a refreshing summer salad can also be a delightful contrast.
Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of simple yet flavorful combinations. A classic side of grilled corn on the cob and a cold glass of iced tea will complement the rich BBQ sauce. For a more indulgent pairing, serve your oven-baked BBQ chicken tenders with jalapeño cornbread, creating a mouthwatering Southern-inspired feast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
When storing leftover BBQ chicken tenders, it’s best to place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they stay safe to eat. If you want to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), place the tenders on a baking sheet, and heat for approximately 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re heated through and crispy again.
For those looking for a quick and easy meal, reheating BBQ chicken tenders in the oven is a game-changer. This method not only restores their original crunch but also ensures any sauces or flavors remain intact, making it perfect for enjoying them as a delicious side or main course once again.