why make this recipe
This recipe gives you crunchy, smoky chicken with little work. It uses BBQ potato chips for a fast, tasty coating. It is great for weeknight dinners, parties, or snacks.
introduction
These BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders are simple and fun to make. The chips give a bold barbecue flavor and a crunchy crust. Serve with your favorite dip for a quick meal. If you like smoky comfort food, try pairing this with a rich BBQ chicken mac and cheese for a full plate.
how to make BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders
Use plain steps and keep the chicken juicy. First soak the tenders in seasoned buttermilk so they stay soft inside. Then press the crushed BBQ chips on the outside for a crisp crust. You can bake or fry them. For a different twist, try the spice ideas from a favorite wrap recipe like the chipotle ranch chicken burrito and add a little of that flavor to the buttermilk mix.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 cups BBQ potato chips, crushed
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer.
- In a bowl, mix the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Roll the coated chicken tenders in the crushed BBQ potato chips until fully covered.
- Place the tenders on a baking sheet or fry them in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
how to serve BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders
Serve warm with ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ketchup. They go well with fries, a simple salad, or steamed veggies. For parties, set them on a platter with small bowls of different dips.
how to store BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders
Cool to room temperature before storing. Put leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. Do not leave at room temperature more than 2 hours.
tips to make BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders
- Crush the chips finely so they stick well.
- Pat the chicken dry before dipping to help the coating stick.
- If baking, spray the tenders lightly with oil for a crisp finish.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- For less oil, bake on a wire rack over a tray.
variation (if any)
- Use plain or sour cream and onion chips for a milder taste.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the buttermilk for extra heat.
- Try panko mixed with crushed chips for a thicker crust.
- Make tenders in the oven for a lower-fat option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast cut into strips instead of tenders?
A: Yes. Cut the breast into strips of similar size and follow the same steps.
Q: Can I skip the buttermilk?
A: You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, but buttermilk gives the best texture.
Q: How do I make them crisp again after refrigeration?
A: Reheat in a 400°F oven or in an air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crisp.
Q: Can I bake instead of frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning once, until cooked through.
Conclusion
For a quick, crispy, and flavorful meal, these BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders are a great choice. If you want another take on the same idea, see a similar recipe at Barbecued Potato Chip Chicken Tenders – Wildflour’s Cottage Kitchen.
BBQ Potato Chip Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer.
- In a bowl, mix the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Roll the coated chicken tenders in the crushed BBQ potato chips until fully covered.
- Place the tenders on a baking sheet or fry them in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve warm with ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ketchup.