15 min spicy chicken tenders recipe
The smell of crispy, spicy chicken tenders is irresistible. It brings everyone to the table for a tasty meal. This 15-minute recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a game day snack. It uses simple ingredients and is ready in no time.
This recipe works because of store-bought chicken tenders and a homemade sweet and spicy mix. Using BBQ sauce, hot sauce, and brown sugar makes the chicken taste amazing. It’s easy to make and won’t break the bank, making it a great choice for any meal.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Chicken Tenders
These 15-minute spicy chicken tenders are loved by many. They’re great for snacks, appetizers, or quick meals. They’re fast, affordable, and versatile, making them a hit with busy cooks.
Time-Saving Benefits
They’re ready in just 15-20 minutes. This makes them perfect for those short on time. You can whip up a tasty meal in minutes.
Budget-Friendly Aspects
They use affordable ingredients like frozen chicken strips. This keeps costs down without sacrificing flavor. It’s a smart choice for saving money.
Versatility in Serving
These tenders can be served in many ways. Enjoy them as an appetizer, with a salad, or as a snack. They fit any occasion.
They offer a spicy kick, are quick to make, and won’t empty your wallet. It’s easy to see why they’re a favorite. Try them for a fast, tasty, and family-friendly meal.
Essential Ingredients for 15 Min Spicy Chicken Tenders Recipe
Making crispy chicken tenders or spicy chicken strips at home is simple. The secret is in the ingredients. They come together to make a meal full of flavor.
The recipe starts with frozen crispy chicken strips. These pre-breaded tenders are a great base. They help you make a tasty dish in just 15 minutes. To add more flavor, you’ll need Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce (like Sweet Baby Ray’s). The hot sauce and brown sugar mix gives a sweet and spicy taste. The BBQ sauce adds depth and complexity.
For a great dipping experience, have ranch or blue cheese dressing ready. These creamy sauces match the bold flavors of the spicy chicken tenders perfectly.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen crispy chicken strips | 1.5 pounds |
| Frank’s Red Hot Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| BBQ sauce (like Sweet Baby Ray’s) | 1/4 cup |
| Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional) | for serving |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious crispy chicken tenders or spicy chicken strips dish in 15 minutes. Get ready to enjoy the perfect mix of heat, sweetness, and tangy flavors in every bite!
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make perfect baked or air fryer chicken tenders, you need some key tools. These help get the right texture, taste, and ease in cooking.
Essential Cooking Tools
- A big pot or pan for deep frying, or an air fryer for a healthier option
- A shallow bowl or curved tray for coating the chicken in breading
- A large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce
- Tongs for handling the chicken tenders while cooking
- A kitchen thermometer to keep the oil or air fryer at the right temperature
Optional Equipment for Better Results
While the basic tools are a must, some extra items can make your cooking better. They help get crispy, tasty baked or air fryer chicken tenders:
- A baking sheet for oven-baked chicken tenders
- A cooling rack to let the chicken tenders drain excess oil or fat
- Paper towels for drying the chicken tenders to remove oil or moisture
Having the right kitchen tools makes cooking delicious and crispy chicken tenders easy. The mix of essential and optional items ensures a smooth cooking process and great results every time.
Marinade and Seasoning Guide
To bring out the full flavor of your spicy chicken tenders, a good marinade and seasoning are key. The marinade mixes buttermilk (or yogurt), hot sauce, salt, and white pepper. This combo tenderizes the chicken and adds a zesty tang.
The seasoning blend includes flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, baking powder, and salt. This mix creates a crispy, flavorful coating. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
With the chicken tenders marinated and seasoned right, you’re ready for a delicious treat. The secret to success is finding the right balance in the marinade and seasoning.