Are you looking for a happy medium between grilled and fried chicken tenders? Do you want that signature smoky flavor without standing over the grill all day? Smoke cooking is an excellent way to get delicious, fall-off-the fork tender chicken tenders in just a fraction of the time! Just set your smoker to 225 degrees and follow our helpful guide on how long to cook your chicken tenders. The results will be satisfyingly smoky with succulent texture that simply can’t be beat!
What is the best way to smoke chicken tenders?
For perfect chicken tenders, you’ll want to apply a dry rub or marinade prior to putting them in the smoker. This will allow for maximum flavor absorption and also help keep your tenderloins moist as they smoke. The best way to ensure even cooking is to use either an oven thermometer or digital thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin. This will help you to know when your chicken tenders have reached the desired temperature.
What temperature should I smoke chicken tenders at?
The ideal temperature for smoking chicken tenders is 225 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure the inside of your tenderloins are cooked through while keeping the outside moist and juicy. You may need to adjust the heat on your smoker periodically to maintain a steady cooking temperature.
How long does it take to smoke chicken tenders at 225 degrees?
The cooking time for chicken tenders at 225 degrees will depend on the size of your tenders. Generally speaking, you should expect it to take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Be sure to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of your tenders – they should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before they are finished cooking.
What kind of wood should I use to smoke chicken tenders?
The type of wood you use for your smoked chicken tenders will depend on the flavor profile you’re looking for. Fruit woods such as apple, cherry, and peach are great options if you want a sweet and subtle smoky flavor. For a more intense smokey flavor, consider hickory or mesquite.
What are some of the best seasonings for smoked chicken tenders?
The best seasonings for smoked chicken tenders will depend on your personal preference. However, classic combinations such as garlic, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper are always a safe bet. For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a bit of brown sugar or honey to the rub before smoking.
How can I make sure my chicken tenders are cooked properly?
The best way to ensure your chicken tenders are cooked all the way through is to use an oven thermometer or digital thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin and check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can always cut open one of your tenders – if the inside is cooked all the way through, they’re ready to eat!
Once your chicken tenders have reached their proper temperature, remove them from the smoker and let cool before serving.
What are some of the best ways to serve smoked chicken tenders?
Smoked chicken tenders can be served as the main course for dinner or as an appetizer. Serve your smoked tenders with a side of baked potatoes, grilled veggies, or even a fresh salad. For a true Southern barbecue experience, try serving your smoked chicken tenders on slider buns and topping with coleslaw and pickles.
Can I smoke frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can smoke frozen chicken tenders! However, this is not recommended as the texture may be affected. For best results, defrost your tenders in the refrigerator prior to smoking.
What kind of chicken tender should I use for smoking?
The best type of chicken tender for smoking is a boneless, skinless tenderloin. The size of the tenders will depend on your preference – larger ones will take longer to cook but will be juicier, while smaller ones may cook faster and have a more intense smoky flavor.
What are some of the best recipes for smoked chicken tenders?
There are many tasty recipes for smoked chicken tenders, but here are a few of our favorites:
– Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tenders: These tenders are marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro before being cooked over a smoky fire. Serve them with queso fresco and fresh salsa for a Mexican-inspired meal.
– Barbecue Chicken Tenders: These tenders are coated in a homemade barbecue sauce before being smoked to perfection. Serve them with coleslaw and french fries for a classic Southern meal.
– Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders: Marinate the tenders in a mixture of honey, mustard, garlic, and white wine vinegar before smoking. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a delicious dinner.
– Chili Lime Chicken Tenders: These zesty tenders are marinated in a mixture of chili powder, lime juice, garlic, and honey before cooking over the smoker. Serve them with corn on the cob or mashed potatoes for an easy weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts
How long should you smoke chicken tenders at 225 degrees? The answer is simple: it depends on the size of the chicken, as well as how cold they were to start. If your chicken tenders are small, you can expect them to be done in about 2 hours. However, if they’re larger or were very cold to start, it will take closer to 3 hours. In any case, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken is cooked through before serving. By following these guidelines, you’ll be sure to enjoy perfectly smoked chicken every time!
