Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner! If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing the irresistible flavor of Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders into your own kitchen, you’re in for a treat. Juicy, boldly seasoned chicken packed with smoky spices and a mouthwatering crust awaits you, all in under 20 minutes. With each bite, you’ll be amazed how this quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful recipe rivals your favorite fast-food tenders—minus the waiting in line!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s astonishing how a short list of familiar ingredients can pack such a flavor punch. Each spice and herb in this mix is key, lending the distinct, crave-worthy color, aroma, and taste that these Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders are known for. Let’s break down what you’ll need and how each star ingredient shines.
- Chicken Tenders: The star of the show—tender, juicy strips that soak up the spice blend beautifully and cook up fast.
- Olive Oil: Helps the blackened seasoning stick and lends a lovely golden sear to the outside.
- Paprika: Adds classic peppery warmth and vibrant red color.
- Smoked Paprika: Infuses the chicken with that hallmark smoky aroma and deep flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Gives a savory, earthy backbone that enhances all the other spices.
- Onion Powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and extra depth to the flavor profile.
- Cayenne Pepper: Here’s where the heat comes in—adjust to your personal spice level!
- Dried Oregano: A gentle hint of herbal flavor that elevates the mix.
- Dried Thyme: Ties it all together with a woodsy, classic Southern undertone.
- Black Pepper: For that little extra kick and warmth in every tender bite.
- Salt: Essential for rounding out and intensifying every other flavor in the mix.
How to Make Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Mix Up That Bold Blackened Spice Blend
Start by combining all your spices in a small bowl—paprika, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powders, cayenne, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir them together thoroughly. You’ll notice the colors look vibrant and the aroma is already irresistible. This mix brings all the magic, so make sure it’s well-blended and ready to coat your chicken evenly.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken Tenders
Grab those chicken tenders and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry chicken means the oil and spices will stick better and give you that gorgeous crust. Next, drizzle the tenders all over with olive oil and use your hands (or tongs) to ensure every piece is totally coated. This creates the perfect sticky surface for the spice rub.
Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the chicken, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. Use your hands to really press the spice blend in on all sides. Don’t be shy—the more seasoning, the bolder the flavor! This step is what transforms everyday chicken into Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders greatness.
Step 4: Sear to Perfection
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s good and hot, place your coated chicken tenders in the pan without crowding them. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’ll see the edges darken into that signature blackened char while the inside stays juicy. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, they’re ready!
Step 5: Rest, Then Serve
Take the tenders off the heat and let them rest on a plate for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat, giving you the juiciest, most flavorful Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders ever. Now, gather your favorite dipping sauce and dig in!
How to Serve Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and an herbal lift. A squeeze of lemon over the plate right before serving adds brightness that perfectly balances the smoky spices. If you love heat, a little extra cayenne sprinkled on top just before serving can kick things up another notch!
Side Dishes
These tenders pair perfectly with a light and tangy slaw, buttery corn on the cob, or crispy sweet potato fries for contrast. If you’re leaning low-carb, serve with roasted broccoli or a fresh garden salad. And, of course, no one will judge if you want a pile of golden fries right alongside your Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the tenders and tuck them in warm flour tortillas with crunchy cabbage and a drizzle of ranch—hello, blackened chicken tacos! Or, top a hearty salad with sliced tenders and your favorite dressing for a protein-packed lunch. They also make a standout party platter paired with a trio of dipping sauces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days—a perfect protein for meal prep or quick lunches! Just be sure to let them cool before sealing to maintain their juicy texture.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, these tenders freeze beautifully. Arrange cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months, making dinner a breeze any night of the week.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders in an air fryer or on the stovetop in a hot skillet. Both methods keep the outside crispy and the inside tender. Microwave reheating can work in a pinch, but you might sacrifice a bit of that signature texture—cover them with a damp paper towel to help preserve moisture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Simply slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips about the same size as tenders. This ensures even cooking and that classic tender texture you want in Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders.
What makes these tenders “blackened”?
The magic comes from the spice blend and the high heat cooking method. Blackening spices develop a deep, flavorful crust on the outside of the chicken, creating that bold color and smoky, slightly charred taste that defines these tenders.
Are these tenders very spicy?
They do pack a bit of heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper, but you can always dial the spice level up or down to suit your taste. Start with less cayenne if you prefer milder flavors and ramp it up if you want your Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders extra fiery.
Can I make these tenders in the oven?
Yes! Arrange the seasoned tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. While you won’t get quite as much char as you would in a skillet, you’ll still enjoy that intensely seasoned flavor.
What dipping sauces go best with these tenders?
Classic ranch, spicy honey mustard, or a tangy remoulade all enhance the smoky spices beautifully. For an extra Southern touch, whip up a quick homemade spicy mayo—a perfect companion to Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders!
Final Thoughts
I hope you love bringing a taste of Popeye’s home as much as I do! These Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders are guaranteed to satisfy every craving for bold, Southern-inspired protein. Don’t be surprised if they become a new staple in your dinner rotation—quick to make, endlessly versatile, and so full of flavor, they’ll keep you coming back for more. Enjoy every spicy, smoky bite!
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Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious and spicy Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders at home with this easy recipe. These tender chicken strips are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders:
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
Spice Blend:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
- Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels, then coat evenly with olive oil. Rub the spice blend generously over all sides of the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken tenders in the hot pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until nicely blackened and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra juiciness, marinate the tenders in buttermilk for 30 minutes before seasoning.
- These tenders pair perfectly with ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy dipping sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in an air fryer or skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared, Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
