Description
This BBQ Lime Chicken recipe features crispy baked chicken tenders coated in a zesty lime-infused barbecue sauce. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these chicken tenders offer a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 lbs chicken tenders
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 3 large eggs
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
BBQ Lime Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional
- Ranch dressing, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Flour Coating: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the flour and chicken tenders in a large resealable plastic bag and shake well until the chicken is fully coated with flour.
- Dredging Station Setup: Prepare two shallow bowls – one with panko bread crumbs, and the other with whisked eggs combined with 2 tablespoons of water. Dip each floured chicken tender first into the egg mixture and then coat thoroughly with the bread crumbs. Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare BBQ Lime Sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine barbecue sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, whisking occasionally, and simmer for 5 minutes until flavors meld and sauce slightly thickens.
- Toss and Serve: Transfer the baked chicken tenders to a large bowl and toss thoroughly with the warm BBQ lime sauce until evenly coated. Serve warm with optional ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Using panko bread crumbs gives a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular bread crumbs.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ lime sauce.
- Serve with fresh lime wedges for an extra zesty flavor boost.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).