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smoked chicken tenders recipe

Juicy Smoked Chicken Tenders

Megan FosterMegan Foster
Discover how to make juicy smoked chicken tenders with our easy recipe. Perfect for family dinners and BBQs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
resting time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 smoker
  • 1 meat thermometer
  • 1 Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 2 pounds chicken tenders

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Rinse chicken tenders under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  • Coat chicken tenders thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring even coverage.

Smoking

  • Preheat the smoker to 225°F.
  • Arrange chicken tenders on the smoker rack in a single layer.
  • Smoke the chicken tenders for 45-50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Serving

  • Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage

  • Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use apple or hickory wood chips for a balanced smoke flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use chicken breasts cut into strips if tenders are unavailable.
How to Serve: Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled vegetables.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Marinate the chicken a day in advance to enhance the flavor.
Keyword BBQ chicken tenders, juicy chicken tenders, smoked chicken tenders