Description
This BBQ Lime Chicken recipe features crispy baked chicken tenders coated in a flavorful breading, tossed in a tangy homemade barbecue lime sauce. Perfectly balanced with the zest of lime and the sweetness of brown sugar, this dish is an easy and delicious meal option that pairs well with ranch dressing for dipping.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 lb. chicken tenders
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 3 large eggs
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
Optional
- Ranch dressing, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Flour Coating: Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the all-purpose flour with the chicken tenders. Seal the bag and shake well to fully coat each piece of chicken in flour.
- Prepare Dredging Station: Set up two shallow bowls: one with panko bread crumbs and the other whisk the eggs together with 2 tablespoons of water. Dip the floured chicken tenders first into the egg mixture, then coat them thoroughly in the bread crumbs. Place the coated chicken on a prepared baking sheet and generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the breaded chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through inside.
- Prepare the BBQ Lime Sauce: While the chicken is baking, combine the barbecue sauce, packed brown sugar, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk the mixture and simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Toss and Serve: Once the chicken tenders are baked, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them with the warm barbecue lime sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately with ranch dressing for dipping if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you may spray the breaded chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue lime sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 4-5 tenders)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
