Oh heck yes — Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tenders bring that bold, smoky heat with a crispy edge and tender, juicy center. Perfect for dipping, wrapping, or straight-up devouring. 🔥🍗🌶️
🌶️ Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tenders
🛒 Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or sliced chicken breast strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1–2 tsp chipotle chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lime
Optional breading (for crispy style):
- ½ cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko or crushed cornflakes
- Extra chipotle powder or paprika for coating
Dipping sauce idea:
- ½ cup mayo or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1–2 tsp adobo sauce from a can of chipotles
- Pinch of salt
🔥 Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Toss chicken tenders with olive oil, lime juice, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Let sit for 20–30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
- Cook ’Em:
- Grilled/Skillet Option: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tenders 3–4 minutes per side until fully cooked and lightly charred.
- Crispy Baked Option: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Dredge tenders in flour, then dip in egg, then coat in panko. Place on a wire rack and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
- Make the Dipping Sauce (if using):
- Whisk together mayo/yogurt, honey, lime juice, adobo sauce, and salt until smooth and creamy.
🍽️ Serve With:
- Sweet potato fries or elote-style corn
- A crunchy slaw or salad
- Tucked in tacos or wraps with avocado and lime crema
These tenders are smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor that sneaks up on you in the best way. Want to go full-on chipotle ranch or make them into sliders? Just holler!
