Potato Chip-Crusted BBQ Chicken Tenders
The Ultimate Crunch: These are the ultimate kid and adult-pleaser. Imagine tender, juicy chicken encased in a shatteringly crisp, salty-sweet, smoky crust. They’re a fun, elevated twist on classic chicken tenders.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Marinade:
· 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken tenders, or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips
· ¾ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, divided (½ cup for marinade, ¼ cup for glaze)
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· ½ teaspoon garlic powder
· ½ teaspoon onion powder
· ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Crust:
· 5 oz (about 5-6 cups) ridged potato chips (Classic, BBQ, or even Salt & Vinegar for a kick)
· ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
· 2 large eggs
· 1 tablespoon water
· Cooking spray or additional oil
For Serving (Optional):
· Extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for dipping
· Celery sticks, carrot sticks
· Coleslaw or potato salad
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine the chicken tenders with ½ cup BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Prep the Crust Stations:
- Chip Crust: Place potato chips in a large zip-top bag. Seal and crush finely using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. You want a mix of fine crumbs and some small pieces for texture. Transfer to a shallow dish.
- Flour Station: Place flour in a second shallow dish.
- Egg Wash: In a third shallow dish, whisk the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Bread the Chicken:
· Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and spray the rack generously with cooking spray. (This allows air circulation for maximum crunch).
· Take a marinated chicken tender, letting excess marinade drip off. Dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess.
· Dip it into the egg wash, coating completely.
· Finally, press it firmly into the crushed chips, turning and patting to ensure an even, generous coating.
· Place on the prepared wire rack. Repeat with all tenders.
- Bake:
· Lightly spray the top of the breaded tenders with cooking spray (this helps them brown and crisp).
· Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C) and the crust is deep golden brown and crispy.
- Glaze & Serve:
· Warm the remaining ¼ cup of BBQ sauce. Brush a thin layer over the hot tenders as soon as they come out of the oven (optional, but adds great flavor and shine).
· Let cool for 2-3 minutes on the rack before serving.
· Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.
Pro Tips for Maximum Crispiness:
· The Wire Rack is Non-Negotiable: It’s the secret to avoiding a soggy bottom. It lets hot air circulate all around the tender.
· Press Firmly: Really press the chips into the chicken to form a solid, cohesive crust.
· Don’t Skip the Flour: The flour layer helps the egg wash adhere, which in turn holds the chips.
· Fresh Chips for Best Crunch: Stale chips won’t give you the same explosive crispiness.
· Serve Immediately: The crust is at its absolute peak right out of the oven.
Air Fryer Method (For Even More Crisp):
· Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
· Arrange breaded tenders in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches).
· Spray tops with oil and cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through and crispy.
Flavor Variations:
· Chip Swap: Use salt & vinegar chips for a tangy punch, jalapeño chips for heat, or cheddar & sour cream for a cheesier flavor.
· Spicy BBQ: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne to the flour or chip crumbs.
· “Everything Bagel” Style: Mix 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning into the chip crumbs.
What to Serve With:
· Classic: Celery & carrot sticks with ranch and extra BBQ sauce.
· Comfort Food: Creamy mac & cheese and baked beans.
· Lighter: A big, crunchy wedge salad or grilled corn on the cob.
· For a Party: Skewer each tender with a mini pickle and serve as a fun appetizer.
Enjoy the incredible crunch! These are guaranteed to be a new favorite.