Go Back Email Link
popeyes blackened tenders recipe

Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Half a fresh lemon, for squeezing
  • Small handful of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Combine all spices and salt in a small bowl. Pat chicken tenders dry, drizzle with the 1 tbsp olive oil, then coat thoroughly with the spice mix, pressing it firmly into the surface.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high for 2 minutes. Add the 1 tbsp butter, let it melt and stop foaming, then add tenders in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes, flip, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Work in batches if needed.
  3. Transfer to a plate, squeeze half a lemon over the top, scatter chopped parsley over, and serve immediately.

Notes

These tenders are best eaten fresh while the crust is still hot. If you're making them for a crowd, keep finished batches warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven on a wire rack while you finish cooking the rest. The spice mix makes more than you need for one batch, so feel free to scale up and keep it in a jar.