Transform your weeknight dinner routine with these bold and flavorful Dairy-Free Blackened Chicken Tenders, perfect for health-conscious foodies and spice lovers alike! Coated in a smoky and aromatic blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, these juicy chicken tenders deliver a fiery kick without needing dairy-based ingredients. Prepared in just 25 minutes, this skillet-seared recipe is ideal for busy days, offering crisp, caramelized spices on the outside and tender, perfectly cooked chicken on the inside. Whether paired with a fresh green salad or hearty roasted vegetables, these gluten-free and high-protein chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your home!
In a small mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Evenly coat the chicken tenders with olive oil, ensuring all sides are covered.
Rub the spice mixture over each chicken tender, pressing the spices in, to fully coat them on all sides.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
Cook the chicken tenders for about 6-7 minutes on one side, until the spices are dark brown but not burnt.
Flip the chicken tenders and cook the other side for another 6-7 minutes, or until cooked through and a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the dairy-free blackened chicken tenders with your choice of side dishes, such as a green salad or steamed vegetables.
Calories |
1642 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 108.7 g | 139% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.4 g | 102% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 227 mg | 76% | |
| Sodium | 5092 mg | 221% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 76.1 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.4 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.2 g | ||
| Protein | 93.3 g | 187% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 123 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 1392 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.