Prepare mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders in the oven with a simple recipe using boneless, skinless chicken tenders, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking, dry chicken, coat with BBQ rub or mix, arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, marinate in olive oil, vinegar, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Serve with side dishes like potato wedges, roasted veggies, or a salad.
Looking for a simple, delicious BBQ chicken tenders recipe that’s oven-baked? This guide offers a step-by-step process to create crispy, juicy tenders at home. From gathering the right ingredients like tenderloins, BBQ sauce, and spices, to preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), you’ll master the art of baking perfect BBQ chicken tenders. Learn how to marinate for extra flavor and discover serving suggestions and tips for consistent, mouthwatering results.
- Ingredients Needed For BBQ Chicken Tenders
- Preheating The Oven To The Right Temperature
- Preparing The Chicken Tenderloins
- Creating The Simple BBQ Sauce
- Marinating The Chicken Tenders
- Baking The Chicken In The Oven
- Servings Suggestions And Side Dishes
- Tips For Perfect BBQ Chicken Tenders
Ingredients Needed For BBQ Chicken Tenders
To create mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders in the oven, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, chicken tenders – choose your preferred cut, but boneless and skinless tend to work best for this recipe. For the BBQ sauce, you’ll need a base of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and onion powder. A touch of Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce add depth of flavor and a kick, respectively. Don’t forget a sprinkle of salt and pepper to season your chicken before baking. The result is a delicious, tender, and juicy BBQ treat that’s both easy to prepare and hard to resist!
Preheating The Oven To The Right Temperature
When preparing BBQ chicken tenders in the oven, preheating your oven to the correct temperature is a crucial step that can make or break your meal. Aim for an oven temperature between 375°F (190°C) and 400°F (204°C). This range ensures even cooking, preventing the chicken from drying out while achieving a crispy exterior.
A preheated oven allows you to start cooking your BBQ tenders immediately, ensuring they cook through evenly without burning or becoming rubbery. It’s best not to rush this step; give your oven time to reach the desired temperature for optimal results in your BBQ chicken tender recipe.
Preparing The Chicken Tenderloins
To prepare the chicken tenderloins for your BBQ chicken tenders in oven recipe, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, carefully pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial as it allows the seasoning to adhere better. Once dry, place the tenderloins in a large bowl and coat them evenly with your favorite BBQ rub or a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Toss the coated chicken strips gently until each piece is thoroughly covered. Then, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer without overlapping. This preparation ensures that the tenders cook uniformly and develop a crispy exterior while staying juicy on the inside—the perfect foundation for your BBQ chicken tenders in oven recipe.
Creating The Simple BBQ Sauce
To elevate your BBQ chicken tenders in oven recipe, crafting a simple yet delectable BBQ sauce is key. Start by combining 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture comes to a simmer. Once it does, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Add 1 tablespoon each of garlic powder and paprika, along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Continue to stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This homemade BBQ sauce not only complements the tender chicken perfectly but also adds a depth of flavor that will make your meal unforgettable.
Marinating The Chicken Tenders
Marinating is a key step in enhancing the flavor and tenderness of your BBQ chicken tenders. It’s a simple process that involves submerging the tenderloins in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices for a period of time before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, creating a richer taste profile. For this recipe, we recommend mixing together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place your chicken tenders in a large resealable bag, pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion. This step will not only make your BBQ chicken tenders juicier but also ensure they develop a delightful crust once baked in the oven.
Baking The Chicken In The Oven
Baking the chicken in the oven is a simple and effective method to achieve tender, juicy BBQ chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure even cooking. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the seasoned chicken tenders on the prepared sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. This allows hot air to circulate around each tender, promoting even browning and preventing them from becoming soggy. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure consistent cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F), ensuring it’s cooked through while maintaining its juicy texture.
Servings Suggestions And Side Dishes
For this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Tenders in Oven recipe, one batch typically serves 4-6 people. To create a balanced meal, pair the tenders with a variety of side dishes that complement their smoky flavor. Crispy potato wedges or oven-roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini are excellent choices. A refreshing salad, such as coleslaw or a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, adds texture and crunch. Don’t forget about grains; mashed potatoes or rice pilaf can soak up the BBQ sauce’s deliciousness. For a sweet finish, offer a simple fruit salad or baked beans to round out your BBQ chicken dinner experience.
Tips For Perfect BBQ Chicken Tenders
When preparing BBQ chicken tenders in the oven, there are several simple tips to ensure a delicious and tender result. Firstly, choose high-quality chicken breasts and cut them into strips for even cooking. Marinating the chicken before baking is a game-changer; a mix of BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper can infuse flavor deep into the meat. This step should be allowed to sit for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible, for maximum taste.
Additionally, preheating your oven to the right temperature is crucial. Aim for around 400°F (200°C), which ensures a crispy exterior and tender interior. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even heat distribution. Remember to flip the tenders halfway through cooking to promote consistent browning, and be patient – perfection takes time!