15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders: Easy, Bold Flavor and Fast Cooking

There are some nights in New York when I come home after a long day, open the fridge, and realize I need dinner on the table in less time than it takes to watch an episode of my favorite show. That’s when my 15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders come to the rescue. They’re tender inside, crispy outside, and pack just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.

This is my go-to recipe for when I want something comforting but not heavy, flavorful but not complicated. With a handful of pantry spices, a little oil, and some good quality chicken, you’ve got a meal that works for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or even a quick lunch.

The Secret Sauce Behind These Tenders

These are not your average chicken tenders, here’s why.

• Fast – From fridge to plate in just 15 minutes.
• Flavor-packed – The spice blend gives heat without overpowering the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Versatile – Works in the skillet, oven, or air fryer.
• Family-friendly – Adjust the spice level so everyone’s happy.
• Meal-prep friendly – Cook ahead and reheat without losing crispiness.

Customizations

• Gluten-free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Low-carb – Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or keto flour mix.
• Extra spicy – Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the egg wash.
• Milder version – Reduce paprika and chili powder, or serve with a creamy dip.

For a deeper dive into spice blends that work beautifully with chicken, check out The Kitchn’s guide to seasoning chicken.

How to Set Yourself Up for a 15-Minute Dinner

If you want these 15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders to actually take just 15 minutes, the trick is getting a couple of simple things ready ahead of time. That way, when it’s time to cook, you can go from skillet to plate without a single pause.

Here’s what I recommend having ready before you even heat the pan

• Trim and cut the chicken tenders so they’re uniform in size for even cooking
• Mix your spice blend in a small bowl so you can sprinkle it on in seconds
• Pre-measure your oil to avoid scrambling around mid-cook
• Chop any garnish like fresh parsley or cilantro for a quick finish
• Have your sides prepped; think salad greens, rice, or roasted veggies ready to go

How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders: Recipe Card

Spicy Chicken Tenders Recipe

Recipe by Kenza Edem

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories per serving

250

kcal

Juicy, flavorful, and ready in a flash, these spicy chicken tenders are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. They cook up golden and tender in under 15 minutes, with just the right kick of heat.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

• Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear and prevents excess moisture.
• Season: In a bowl, toss the tenders with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
• Cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned tenders, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Serve: Transfer to a plate, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Notes

• Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
• For extra smokiness, add a touch of chipotle powder.
• Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a perfect sear.

Nutrition Facts

• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 28g

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Tips and Tricks for The Best 15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders Recipe

1. Use a Hot Pan: Preheat the skillet to get a quick, even sear.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This keeps the tenders crispy instead of steamy.
3. Pat Dry the Chicken: Remove moisture to help the spices adhere and create a nice crust.
4. Rest Before Serving: Letting the tenders rest briefly allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

Fun Ways to Remix This Recipe

If you’re like me, you love experimenting with flavors depending on what’s in the pantry or what mood you’re in. Here are some fun ways to change things up while keeping that quick cooking time intact.

• Honey Sriracha Tenders: Reduce cayenne to 0.25 teaspoon, and in the last 2 minutes of cooking, glaze the chicken with a mix of 1 tablespoon honey and 1 tablespoon sriracha for a sweet-spicy finish.
• Garlic Herb Tenders: Skip the cayenne, add 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a lighter flavor.
• Cajun-Style Tenders: Replace the spice blend with your favorite Cajun seasoning for a smoky Southern twist.
• BBQ Glazed Tenders: Cook as directed, then toss in warm BBQ sauce before serving for a sticky, flavorful version.

What Can You Serve With this Recipe ?

Serve these spicy tenders with cooling sides like a creamy coleslaw, garlic butter rice, or a crisp green salad. For a hearty meal, add mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries. You can also use this homemade Cane’s Sauce to dip the tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Making 15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Skipping the Pat-Dry Step: Wet chicken can become soggy and won’t get that beautiful, crispy finish.
• Overcooking: Since these tenders cook quickly, keep an eye on them to avoid drying them out.
• Using Low Heat: Cooking on low won’t give you a good sear, leaving the tenders less flavorful.

Your Spicy Chicken Questions Answered

How to Store and Reheat

To keep your tenders tasting fresh

• You can also enjoy them cold in wraps or salads the next day
• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping halfway, to keep them juicy. Avoid microwaving for too long, it can dry them out

Conclusion: Let’s Get Cooking

There you have it, my 15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders, the ultimate solution for nights when you want something fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy. They’re versatile enough for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or even game-day snacks, and they’re easy enough that you’ll never need to look at the recipe after making them once or twice.