Baking Bbq Chicken Strips: How Long Should You Wait?

BBQ chicken strips are a delicious, family-friendly meal that can be whipped up in no time. They are a great weeknight dinner option, and the best part is that they are so versatile! You can serve them with anything from potatoes to vegetables or even a fresh green salad. But how long do you bake them for? Well, that depends on the recipe you follow and your oven temperature. Some recipes call for baking the chicken strips at 350°F or 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, while others suggest a higher temperature of 425°F for a shorter baking time of around 10-15 minutes.

How to get the right texture

The key to achieving the right texture for your BBQ chicken strips is a combination of the right cooking technique, temperature, and timing. Here are some detailed instructions to help you get that perfect texture:

Choose the Right Cooking Technique

Elevating the chicken strips above the baking sheet by using a roasting or cooling rack can help prevent sogginess and promote even cooking. This technique allows air to circulate under the chicken, reducing the chances of it becoming soggy from resting in its juices. It also helps the chicken cook faster and stay moist. If you don't have a rack, you can simply line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

Prepare the Chicken Strips

Pat the chicken dry before applying any seasonings or sauces. This helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and promotes even browning. You can also coat the chicken strips in olive oil, which will prevent sticking and encourage caramelization.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, typically between 350°F to 425°F. The higher temperature will help caramelize the BBQ sauce, enhancing the flavor.

Baste and Bake

Baste the chicken strips generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or rack and bake for about 10 minutes. Then, flip the chicken strips over, baste again, and return them to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. The total cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken strips, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Check for Doneness

The chicken strips are done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to check the temperature. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to dry and tough chicken.

Rest and Serve

Once your chicken strips are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Then, serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy!

What ingredients you'll need

To make BBQ chicken strips, you'll need a few key ingredients. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity, as it requires minimal preparation and cooking time. Here's a detailed list of the ingredients you'll need:

Chicken Tenders:

The star of the dish! Chicken tenders are the perfect choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly without drying out. You can purchase chicken tenders or cut chicken breasts into strips. Look for boneless and skinless chicken tenders or breasts, and opt for fresh or frozen (just make sure to thaw them before cooking). The amount of chicken you'll need may vary depending on your preference and the size of your group. A typical pack contains 1-2 pounds, and you can easily scale the recipe up or down.

BBQ Sauce:

The key ingredient that gives the dish its signature flavour! Choose your favourite brand and flavour of BBQ sauce. You can opt for a smoky, spicy sauce or go for something sweeter. You'll need about 1/3 to 1 cup of BBQ sauce, depending on the recipe and your personal preference. You can also make your own homemade BBQ sauce if you're feeling adventurous.

Oil or Olive Oil:

A small amount of oil is needed to prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking dish or oven rack. You can use olive oil, EVOO (extra virgin olive oil), or vegetable oil. Rubbing the chicken with oil will also promote caramelization and enhance the flavour of the seasoning rub.

Seasonings:

To elevate the flavour of your BBQ chicken strips, you'll need some basic seasonings. Here are some common options:

• Garlic Powder: This pairs well with BBQ sauce and adds a savoury punch to the dish.
• Smoked Paprika or Paprika: Gives the chicken a subtle smoky flavour and a beautiful colour.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste. Go easy on the salt and a little heavier on the pepper for a balanced flavour profile.
• Asian-flavoured Barbeque Seasoning: For an Asian-inspired twist on the classic BBQ chicken strip, try using an Asian-flavoured barbeque seasoning blend.

Breadcrumbs (Optional):

Some recipes call for seasoned breadcrumbs, which give the chicken strips a crunchy texture. You'll need about 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs if you choose to include them.

Other Ingredients:

Depending on your chosen recipe, you might also need a few additional ingredients:

• Caramel Sauce: A small amount of caramel sauce can be mixed with the BBQ sauce for a unique flavour profile.
• Paprika: For extra spice and colour.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: While not an edible ingredient, it's essential to have an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How to prepare the chicken

Preparing the chicken is a crucial step in ensuring your BBQ chicken strips are juicy and full of flavour. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to prepare your chicken for baking:

Choosing the Right Chicken:

Start by selecting the right type of chicken. For BBQ chicken strips, it is best to use boneless, skinless chicken tenders or breasts. You can use fresh or frozen chicken, but if you choose frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before use. Some chicken may also come pre-brined, which can save you a step in the preparation process.

Brining (Optional):

Brining the chicken is an optional step, but it can make a significant difference in the juiciness and flavour of the final product. To brine your chicken, fill a large bowl halfway with lukewarm water and stir in a handful of salt until it dissolves. Add cold water or ice cubes to lower the temperature so that the water is cool to the touch. Place the chicken in the brine and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. You can also cover and refrigerate the bowl for up to 6 hours for an even more intense brine. After brining, rinse the chicken with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Trimming and Tenderizing:

Before proceeding to the next steps, it is important to trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any visible tendons, as these can become tough and chewy when cooked. You can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

Seasoning:

The key to flavourful chicken is in the seasoning. You can use a variety of spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences. A simple and classic option is a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix your chosen spices and herbs together, and then generously sprinkle or rub the mixture over the chicken. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly on both sides.

Marinating (Optional):

While this step is optional, marinating the chicken can take your dish to the next level. You can use a variety of marinades, such as olive oil, barbecue sauce, or a mixture of spices and herbs. Place the chicken in a large bag or container, add your chosen marinade, and ensure the chicken is well-coated. You can marinate the chicken for as little as 15 minutes or up to several hours, depending on your preference and time constraints.

Final Preparations:

Before baking, it is essential to preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature, typically between 375°F and 450°F for BBQ chicken strips. Choose an oven-safe dish or baking sheet, and prepare it with non-stick cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken in the dish, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

Now your chicken is ready for baking! Follow the baking instructions specific to your recipe, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, juicy BBQ chicken strips.

How long to bake for

The cooking time for BBQ chicken strips varies depending on the recipe and the thickness of the chicken. Most recipes suggest baking the chicken for around 20 minutes, but this can range from 15 to 25 minutes.

Some recipes recommend baking the chicken for an initial period, removing it from the oven, brushing with BBQ sauce, and then returning to the oven for a further 10 to 15 minutes. This two-stage cooking process helps to ensure the chicken is cooked through and prevents it from drying out.

One recipe suggests baking the chicken for 10 minutes, then flipping it over, basting with more sauce, and baking for a further 10 minutes. This recipe also recommends using an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through, advising that the chicken is done when the thermometer inserted into the centre of the chicken reads at least 165°F (74°C).

Another recipe recommends baking the chicken on a roasting rack to allow air to circulate and help the chicken cook faster, locking in moisture and preventing soggy bottoms.

How to serve

BBQ chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas and suggestions for how to serve them:

As a Main Course

BBQ chicken tenders can be served as a main course alongside a variety of side dishes. Some side dish options include:

• Potatoes: skillet potatoes, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes (white or sweet), French fries, boiled butter potatoes, or even potato chips.
• Vegetables: roasted broccoli, asparagus, sliced carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Green beans sautéed in minced garlic and butter are also a delicious option. Alternatively, serve them with a fresh green salad.
• Carb options: soft yeast dinner rolls, flaky biscuits, or slices of French bread toasted with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. For a more indulgent option, serve some super cheesy mac 'n' cheese.

As an Appetizer

BBQ chicken tenders can also be served as an appetizer or finger food. Serve them with a dipping sauce on the side, such as homemade ranch dressing or your favourite sauce. You can also serve them as chicken sliders or sandwiches.

Other Serving Suggestions

• For a more casual meal, serve the BBQ chicken tenders on top of a salad or with a side salad.
• If you have any leftover cooked chicken, shred it and mix it with BBQ sauce to make tasty sandwiches or sliders.
• BBQ chicken tenders can also be frozen and then reheated by shredding and warming through in additional BBQ sauce.

Frequently asked questions