Copycat Popeye's Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe

This recipe recreates Popeye's blackened chicken tenders at home in just a few simple steps! I love making this copycat recipe when I want a healthier low carb high protein meal. The juicy blackened chicken is made with a flavorful blend of spices and pan-seared for a crisp outer layer that's so addicting. Trust me, you'll love it!  

The Best Popeye's Blackened Chicken Recipe

I love Popeye’s fried chicken, but the blackened chicken is actually my favorite. The smoky, savory seasoning rub is something that just doesn't exist on any other chicken.

I had some ideas for how to make Popeye's blackened seasoning better, so I gave it a try. The result...this incredibly flavorful and juicy blackened chicken!

You won't believe that it's made with just a few pantry staples that you probably have already! The chicken is so versatile too- slice it up and put it in a salad, eat it on low carb wrap, or with some cauliflower rice for a protein-rich, healthy dinner.

Ingredients Needed

I just mentioned you only need a few pantry staple ingredients to make this recipe, and those ingredients are:

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup vegetable oil

How to Make Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Mix the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine all spices. That's the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well till they combine.

Step 2: Preheat the Skillet

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. This high heat is essential to get that dark, flavorful crust.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken in a bowl and pour the seasoning mix over it, stirring to coat each piece of chicken.

Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Add oil to the hot skillet. Once heated, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Look for that dark, charred crust that is on classic blackened chicken.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it on its own, in a salad, or in your favorite wrap.

Expert Tips To Make Perfect Blackened Chicken

• Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. It needs to be a high temperature to get the blackened crust.
• Use a cast-iron skillet. Cast iron holds heat well, creating that signature charred exterior.
• Blackening chicken produces smoke since the oil is hot, so turn on the fan on over the oven or open a window while cooking.
• Let the chicken rest after it's cooked. This helps the chicken stay super juicy.
• Take your time mixing the chicken in the spices so every inch of the chicken gets fully coated. I press my chicken into the spices to make them stick.

How To Store Blackened Chicken Tenders

Any leftovers can stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three days, or in a freezer-safe bag in the freezer for a few months.

To reheat the chicken, I like to warm it in the oven at 350F for about ten minutes. With that said, it tastes great cold, especially in a salad.

Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well for this recipe and add extra juiciness. If you use thighs, just cook the chicken for a few minutes longer.

Is blackened seasoning spicy?

It has a mild kick but isn't too spicy. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix if you prefer extra heat.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Baking won’t provide the same charred crust, but you can bake it at 400°F for 20-25 minutes and it'll still have a delicious flavor.

Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry the chicken at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping it halfway through cooking. It will have more of a crust than if you bake it. 

What can I serve with blackened chicken?

It goes really well in a salad, over cauliflower rice or rice, or with a side of steamed veggies.

More Copycat Chicken Recipes

• Church's fried chicken
• Raising Cane's chicken
• Bojangles fried chicken
• Panda Express chicken teriyaki
• Cava chicken bowl