Ingredients
Essentials:
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1½ lbs chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into strips
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
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1 tablespoon coconut oil (swap for olive oil for a tropical twist)
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
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1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs (alternative to tenders for juicier texture)
Instructions
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Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry — this step is essential for crispy skin.
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Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Coat the Chicken: Place chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss again until every piece is evenly covered.
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Choose Your Cooking Method:
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Pan-Fry (Best Crust): Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
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Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken in the basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
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Check for Doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
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Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh finish if desired.
Notes
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Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for a juicier result. For a different flavor, try coconut oil instead of olive oil.
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Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite spice blend like Cajun or Italian seasoning.
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Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and freeze extras in airtight bags for up to 2 months.
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Serving Ideas: Serve over cauliflower rice, toss into salads, or use in lettuce wraps with avocado crema.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying, oven-baking, air-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg