Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders (or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips)
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 ½ cups (150 g) breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
2 tablespoons honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Cooking spray or oil (for baking or frying)
Execution
Preheat Oven or Prepare Frying Oil:
-If baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-If frying: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Set Up a Breading Station:
-Place flour in one shallow bowl.
-Beat eggs in a second bowl.
-In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Chicken Fingers:
-Coat each chicken strip in flour, shaking off excess.
-Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coating.
-Press into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides.
Cook the Chicken Fingers:
–For Baking: Arrange breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
–For Frying: Fry chicken strips in batches, 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Toss in BBQ Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine BBQ sauce and honey (if using). Add cooked chicken fingers and toss to coat evenly.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce or your favorite dipping sauces on the side.
