Name: Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw for Family Fun
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders (Use high-quality chicken breast cut into tenders); 1 cup Buttermilk (Can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Use fresh garlic for a sharper flavor); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Finely chopped onion can be used as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used for less smoky flavor); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Regular breadcrumbs can be substituted but may not be as crispy); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Use your favorite brand or homemade version); 4 cups Green Cabbage (Mix with red cabbage for added color); 1 cup Carrots (Grated apples can be a fun substitute); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (White vinegar can be used if necessary); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can be a delicious alternative)

The sizzling sound of frying chicken always takes me back to warm summer evenings spent outside with friends and family. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with my Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw. This recipe comes together quickly, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, as it offers both protein-rich goodness and a fun twist on your go-to chicken dish. The combination of the juicy, perfectly seasoned tenders enveloped in a golden panko crust paired with a vibrant slaw creates a satisfying crunch that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Ready to dive into a delicious world where comfort meets flavor? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are These Chicken Tenders So Irresistible?

Crispy Coating: The crunchy panko breadcrumbs provide a delightful texture that makes each bite truly satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: Infused with spices and accompanied by rich BBQ sauce, these tenders are packed with a savory punch.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy schedules, they come together in a flash, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Versatile Pairing: The sweet slaw not only balances the flavors but also adds a refreshing crunch to every meal. For more zesty options, try these Coconut Crusted Chicken or Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Wings!
Family Favorite: This dish is sure to please everyone around the table, making it a hit at any gathering.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Make them ahead to enjoy delicious leftovers that stay crispy when reheated!

Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders – Use high-quality chicken breast cut into tenders for the best tenderness and flavor.
Buttermilk – Helps tenderize the chicken; substitute with regular milk mixed with a spoonful of vinegar for a similar effect.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth; can be replaced with fresh garlic if you prefer a sharper flavor.
Onion Powder – Enhances the seasoning; finely chopped onion can be used as a substitute, though it may alter the texture.
Smoked Paprika – Provides a smoky depth; if you prefer less smokiness, regular paprika will work just fine.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
All-Purpose Flour – Coats chicken for breading; consider whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Delivers extra crunch and texture; you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, but this won’t be as crispy.
BBQ Sauce – Adds moisture and flavor; feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version.

For the Sweet Slaw

Green Cabbage – Serves as the crunchy base for your slaw, packed with nutrients; mix with red cabbage for added color and flavor.
Carrots – Bring sweetness and vibrant color to the slaw; grated apples can be a fun substitute for a fruity twist.
Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess to the dressing; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Gives the slaw that tangy kick; white vinegar can be used if necessary.
Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; maple syrup makes for a delicious alternative if you want to switch it up.

Now you’re ready to create the perfect Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw that will have everyone returning for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper thoroughly. Submerge the chicken tenders in this marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for achieving tender and flavorful Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders.

Step 2: Prep Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This is where your Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders will bake to perfection, becoming golden brown and delicious. Ensure the oven reaches the temperature for evenly cooked chicken!

Step 3: Prepare Breading Stations
Set up two bowls for breading. In the first bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper, enhancing the seasoning for your chicken. In the second bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs, which will give your chicken a delightful crunch. This assembly line will make coating the chicken easy and efficient.

Step 4: Bread Chicken
Once marinated, take each chicken tender, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Dredge it in the flour mixture, coating all sides, then dip it back in the buttermilk. Finally, roll the tender in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This method ensures that your Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders will be perfectly crunchy once cooked.

Step 5: Cooking
Carefully arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even golden color. Alternatively, for a fried version, heat oil in a skillet and cook each tender for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re crisp and golden brown.

Step 6: Make Slaw
While the chicken is baking, prepare the sweet slaw. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine, ensuring every bite has that sweet tangy crunch that pairs perfectly with your chicken tenders.

Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce
Once the Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders are finished cooking, remove them from the oven or skillet and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle your favorite BBQ sauce over the tenders, tossing gently to coat them evenly. This step adds a burst of flavor and really ties the dish together with that rich, smoky taste.

Step 8: Serve
Plate the Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders alongside a generous serving of sweet slaw for a beautiful contrast in colors and flavors. This delightful presentation makes for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, providing a perfect crunch and zesty freshness that complements the tenders beautifully.

What to Serve with Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw

Elevate your family meal with delightful sides that bring out the best in every bite of this crunchy, savory dish.

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This classic side pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken, providing a rich and comforting contrast that’s hard to resist.
Garlicky Green Beans: The crisp texture and fresh flavor of green beans create a vibrant, nutritious balance, enhancing your meal with a pop of color and taste.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture complement the smoky BBQ flavors, adding a fun twist that’s perfect for dipping.
Cornbread Muffins: Bite-sized and tender, they offer a delightful contrast to the crunchy chicken, while their sweetness harmonizes with the BBQ sauce.
Coleslaw Variations: Consider adding fruit like apples or pineapples for added sweetness and flavor depth that will surprise and delight the palate.
Apple Cider Mimosa: A refreshing drink that marries the flavors of the meal while adding a light, sparkling finish that makes every bite a celebration!
Peach Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm, comforting dessert that echoes the summer vibes of your BBQ feast.

These pairing ideas will not only spice up your dining experience but also create a memorable meal centered around the crispy BBQ chicken tenders with sweet slaw!

Expert Tips for Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders

• Perfectly Marinated: Allow chicken to marinate for at least an hour to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption, ensuring the most delicious crispy BBQ chicken tenders!

• Breading Technique: After coating in flour, let the chicken rest before frying or baking. This helps the panko adhere better, resulting in a crispier coating.

• Use a Thermometer: When frying, maintain oil temperature at around 350°F for even cooking without greasy results. This leads to perfectly crispy tenders every time.

• Air Circulation: If baking, place chicken on a wire rack over the baking sheet. This promotes better air circulation, giving you an equally crispy finish all around.

• Quick Slaw Prep: For the sweetest slaw, prep and toss your ingredients together just before serving. This keeps the crunch and freshness intact, enhancing your meal experience.

• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to try different BBQ sauces for your chicken tenders to find your perfect flavor match; sweet, smoky, or spicy options each add a unique twist!

Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your chicken tenders and slaw to suit your taste!

Herb-Infused Slaw: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor and freshness that brightens the dish.
Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños to the slaw or use a spicy BBQ sauce for those who love a little heat.
Fruity Twist: Substitute grated apples for carrots in the slaw—this sweet addition pairs beautifully with the BBQ flavors.
Flavored Breadings: Experiment with seasonings in your flour mixture; consider adding Parmesan or Italian spices for an extra flavor layer.
Sweet Variation: Use honey or agave nectar in the BBQ sauce for a sweeter profile, perfectly balancing the savory chicken.
Crunchy Variety: Swap panko for crushed cornflakes or even grated coconut for an unexpected texture twist that’s sure to please.
Slaw Upgrade: Try adding nuts like almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch in the slaw that complements the tenderness of the chicken.
Different BBQ Styles: From smoky to honey mustard, explore a variety of BBQ sauces. Check out some spicy options in recipes like Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Wings for a new twist!

Storage Tips for Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the crunchy texture, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tenders for up to 3 months. Layer between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag to prevent sticking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the oven, maintaining that crispy goodness by avoiding the microwave.

Slaw: Best enjoyed fresh, but any leftover slaw can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Mix in a bit more dressing before serving for freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw are fantastic for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken tenders in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for maximum flavor infusion. Additionally, the sweet slaw can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just remember to mix the dressing right before serving to maintain its freshness and crunch. For best results, store the chicken tenders and slaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply bake or fry the chicken and toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce to have your flavorful meal ready in no time!

Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders with Sweet Slaw Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken tenders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenders, look for ones that appear moist and have a pinkish hue, with minimal dark spots. High-quality chicken breast, cut into tenders, will ensure a tender and juicy result. If possible, choose organic or free-range options – the flavor is often richer!

How should I store leftover chicken tenders?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store your leftover crispy BBQ chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maximize crispiness when reheating, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through – this helps restore that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the tenders! Allow them to cool completely, then layer the tenders between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag to prevent sticking and maintain their shape. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven directly from the freezer for a crispy finish!

What should I do if my chicken tenders aren’t crispy?
If your chicken tenders turn out less crispy than expected, it might be due to excess moisture or insufficient cooling time between coating. Ensure you let the breaded tenders rest for about 10-15 minutes before cooking, allowing the coating to adhere better. If you’re baking them, placing the tenders on a wire rack will promote air circulation, enhancing crispiness.

Is the slaw safe for pets?
While the sweet slaw is primarily made from human-friendly ingredients, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Ingredients like mayonnaise may upset their stomachs. If you want to share some shredded carrots or cabbage with your furry friends, those are safe options in moderation!

What if I have dietary restrictions?
No worries! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit various dietary preferences. If you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour. For dairy-free options, substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk mixed with a splash of vinegar. Always check sauces and dressings for hidden allergens!