How To Smoke Chicken Tenders

Get Ready to Smoke Some Delicious Chicken Tenders!

Smoking chicken tenders is a fantastic way to infuse them with a rich, smoky flavor that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, smoking chicken tenders is a great way to add a new dimension to this classic dish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create mouthwatering smoked chicken tenders that will have your friends and family coming back for more.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Before you get started, it’s important to have the right equipment on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A smoker: Whether you prefer a charcoal, electric, or gas smoker, make sure it’s in good working condition.
• Wood chips: Choose your favorite wood chips, such as hickory, apple, or mesquite, to impart a delicious smoky flavor to the chicken tenders.
• Instant-read meat thermometer: This will ensure that your chicken tenders are cooked to perfection.
• Ingredients for your favorite dry rub or marinade.

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

Start by preparing the chicken tenders. You can use store-bought tenders or slice chicken breasts into strips. Make sure to trim any excess fat and pat the tenders dry with paper towels to help the seasonings adhere.

Seasoning the Chicken Tenders

Next, it’s time to season the chicken tenders. You can use a store-bought dry rub or create your own using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Massage the seasoning into the chicken tenders, ensuring that they are evenly coated.

Prepping the Smoker

Now, it’s time to fire up the smoker. If you’re using a charcoal smoker, light the charcoal and allow it to burn until it is covered with white ash. If you’re using an electric or gas smoker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preheating.

Once the smoker is at the desired temperature (around 225-250°F), add the wood chips to the smoker box or directly to the coals. The wood chips will begin to smolder and release flavorful smoke.

Smoking the Chicken Tenders

Place the seasoned chicken tenders on the smoker rack, ensuring that there is space between each piece for the smoke to circulate. Close the smoker and let the magic happen. Monitor the temperature throughout the smoking process and add more wood chips as needed to maintain a steady stream of smoke.

Checking for Doneness

After about 1.5-2 hours, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders. They are ready when the temperature reaches 165°F. Once they have reached this temperature, remove the chicken tenders from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Enjoying

Now comes the best part – serving and enjoying your delicious smoked chicken tenders! Pair them with your favorite sides and dipping sauces for a meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, smoked chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, there you have it – a simple guide to smoking chicken tenders that will have you savoring every smoky bite. With the right equipment, a flavorful dry rub, and a little bit of patience, you can create tender, juicy, and oh-so-tasty smoked chicken tenders that will have your friends and family coming back for more.