Learn how to make copycat Popeye's blackened chicken tenders with homemade seasoning! Takes about 30 minutes. They're so easy and are delicious plain, in sandwiches, or on salads.
Course Main Dish - Chicken, Main Dish (Quick and Easy)
If you're using chicken breast slice it the long way into 2-inch wide strips.
Add the seasonings to a bowl and mix well.
Place the chicken, 2 tablespoons of the oil, and the seasoning mixture into a large bowl.
Mix until the chicken is completely coated with seasoning.
Let stand for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours. If you're letting it stand more than 20 minutes cover the bowl and refrigerate. You can also place in a freezer bag and freeze at this point.
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in a large cast iron skillet over high heat.
When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in an even layer. Don't crowd!
Sear the tenders for 1 ½-2 minutes on each side working in batches. Avoid overcrowding your pan.
Once the chicken is seared transfer the pieces to the prepared pan.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the chicken reaches 160F.
Remove from oven.
Let stand for 10 minutes. During this time it will continue to cook to a safe 165F.
While chicken is resting add the butter to the skillet and melt it, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a spatula and stirring constantly - don't let it burn.
Brush the melted butter over the chicken tenders and serve hot.
Air Fryer
Skip the pan searing and bake in the air fryer at 380° F for 8 to 10 minutes. Check often.
Notes
StorageStore leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container or ziploc bag. You can also freeze.Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for 8 - 10 minutes or in the microwave for one minute or until warm all the way through.I like to add the raw chicken to a freezer bag after I've tossed it in the seasoned oil. It is fine in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to cook just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and continue on with the recipe!Tips
Don't skip the butter at the end of the cooking process, this really increases the flavor of your chicken tenders.
You can increase the heat level by adding more chipotle powder to your seasoning blend.
If you are using store bought chicken tenderloins I recommend removing the connective tissue, so that your chicken doesn't come out chewy.