These Crispy BBQ Chip Tenders take the beloved chicken tender to a whole new level by using crushed barbecue potato chips as the coating instead of traditional breadcrumbs. The result is an incredibly crunchy, flavorful exterior that delivers intense barbecue taste in every single bite. This creative coating method creates a texture that’s impossible to achieve with regular breading, giving you that satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. The chicken stays incredibly juicy inside while the chip coating becomes golden and crispy in the oven, creating the perfect contrast of textures. What started as a fun kitchen experiment has become a family favorite that combines the nostalgia of childhood snacks with the satisfaction of a proper dinner. The barbecue chips infuse the chicken with smoky, tangy flavors that pair beautifully with the tender meat, while the baking method keeps everything healthier than traditional fried tenders. These tenders are perfect for kids and adults alike, making dinner time both fun and delicious. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe serves 4-5 people and transforms simple chicken breasts into something truly special.
Serving Size: 4-5 generous portions
What You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk or regular milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the BBQ Chip Coating:
- 6 cups barbecue potato chips (about 6 ounces)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray for baking
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips, about 3/4 inch wide and 4 inches long. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly. Pat each piece completely dry with paper towels, then season all sides with salt and pepper.
Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. This mixture will help the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
Creating the Amazing Chip Coating
This is where the magic happens. Place the barbecue chips in a food processor and pulse until they’re broken down into coarse crumbs. You want some texture remaining, not a fine powder, so aim for pieces that range from fine crumbs to small chunks about the size of coarse breadcrumbs.
Transfer the crushed chips to your third breading dish and mix in the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and black pepper. The panko adds extra crispiness while the Parmesan contributes a savory depth that complements the barbecue flavor beautifully.
The Perfect Breading Process
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray the parchment with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Working with one piece at a time, dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press firmly into the chip coating mixture. Make sure to coat all sides thoroughly and press the coating into the chicken to help it adhere. The key is to really pack that coating on for maximum crunch.
Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for air circulation. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray, which helps the coating become extra golden and crispy.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Bake the tenders for 15-18 minutes, flipping once halfway through cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit, and the coating should be golden brown and crispy. If you want extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
The chip coating will become incredibly crunchy and develop a beautiful golden color that looks almost too good to eat. Let the tenders rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the coating to set completely.
Serving Your Crispy Creation
These BBQ chip tenders are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, or crispy french fries. For dipping, try ranch dressing, honey mustard, or additional barbecue sauce to double down on that smoky flavor.
For a complete meal, serve over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a satisfying salad, or stuff into soft rolls with lettuce and tomato for amazing chicken tender sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover tenders in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness when reheating, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350-degree oven for 8-10 minutes rather than using the microwave, which can make the coating soggy.
Flavor Variations
Try this technique with different flavored chips for completely new taste experiences. Honey barbecue chips add sweetness, while spicy barbecue chips bring heat. You could even experiment with other crunchy snacks like cheese crackers or flavored pretzels for unique coating options. The method works with any crunchy snack food that can be crushed into coating-sized pieces.
