Name: Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 2 teaspoons Paprika; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper; 1 teaspoon Chili Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Salt; Lemon Wedges for serving

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with a smoky, spicy flavor, these Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders bring the mouth-watering taste of a fast-food classic to your home kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of Popeye’s chicken or simply looking for a healthier, homemade alternative to fried chicken tenders, this recipe delivers all the bold flavors and satisfying textures without the hassle of deep-frying. The beauty of these tenders lies in their simplicity — made without breading, letting the blackened seasoning blend truly shine.

Simple ingredients like chicken tenders and a medley of spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs create a robust taste profile that mimics the iconic fast-food version. There’s something undeniably delicious about seasoning cooked to perfection in a hot skillet, forming a savory crust that keeps the meat juicy. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for those following a halal diet, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these tenders.

For those who crave that signature blackened flavor, these tenders hit the mark with minimal prep time and cooking. The ease of this recipe makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend treat. Serve them with lemon wedges for a zesty finish or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flair. Whatever side you choose, these chicken tenders will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders

Bold flavors: Spiced to perfection with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Quick and easy: Ready to serve in just about 20 minutes.
Healthy option: No breading means fewer carbs and calories.
Halal friendly: Suitable for halal dietary needs.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making these delectable Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience. Start by setting up a clean workspace, ensuring you have easy access to all your ingredients and equipment. You’ll need a reliable cast-iron skillet, which is ideal for achieving that perfect blackened crust due to its ability to maintain consistent, high heat.

Aside from the skillet, have a few other kitchen staples at the ready: a mixing bowl for the spices, tongs for flipping the tenders, and a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature. A small bowl to combine your spices and a lemon squeezer will also come in handy.

Ingredients

1 pound Chicken Tenders
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
2 teaspoons Paprika
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
1 teaspoon Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme
1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Salt
Lemon Wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

Begin by heating up your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. A well-heated skillet is crucial for getting that delicious blackened crust, so be patient and let it reach the right temperature.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, lightly coat the chicken tenders with olive oil. In a separate small bowl, combine all the dry spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix them well, then coat each chicken tender evenly, taking care to cover all sides.

Step 3: Prepare and Cook the Tenders

Add a little olive oil to your skillet just before placing the tenders inside. This helps prevent sticking and promotes an even cook. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the skillet. Allow them to sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they easily release from the pan.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once cooked through, measuring at an internal temperature of 165°F, remove the tenders and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the tenders moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your chicken tenders hot, garnished with lemon wedges to add a fresh, zesty touch. Consider offering a side of dipping sauces for an enhanced experience.

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken tenders for boneless thighs for more richness, or use turkey tenders as an alternative.
Vegetables: Pair with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to add nutrients and color to your plate.
Spices: Experiment with additional spices such as smoked paprika or a hint of cumin for even fuller flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your skillet is well-heated to avoid the chicken sticking and to achieve that desired blackened effect.
Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to maintain even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a simple green salad to balance the spicy flavors.
Offer with a side of rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Tips

For even greater spice depth, let the seasoned chicken sit for 15 minutes before cooking.
For added smokiness, consider using smoked paprika in place of regular paprika.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 210 per serving
Protein: Roughly 26g per serving
Sodium: Approximately 550mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, substituting fresh herbs can provide a vibrant flavor, but you’ll need to triple the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.

Can I bake these instead of using a skillet?

While baking is an option, you won’t achieve the same charred, blackened crust that a skillet provides. However, baking at 400°F for around 15–20 minutes is a healthier alternative.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these tenders?

A creamy ranch or tangy barbecue sauce pairs wonderfully with the bold spices of the blackened chicken.

Conclusion

As you’ve seen, creating these Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders at home is both easy and rewarding. They’ve got everything you crave: bold flavors, ease of preparation, and zesty lemon on the side. Whether you’re serving them up for a quick dinner or adding them to a larger meal, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Encourage your family to enjoy these hot, smoky tenders and consider experimenting with different herbs or spice levels to make the recipe truly your own. Remember to leave a comment below with your thoughts and any creative variations you try!