Popeyes Blackened Chicken

If you’re looking for bold flavor but don’t want the crunch of fried batter, Popeyes Blackened Chicken Tenders are your new favorite snack. The restaurant launched Blackened Tenders in 2011 as one of its non-breaded offerings. As well as paprika, cayenne, garlic, onion, salt, black pepper, and herbs, it is made with boneless skinless chicken breasts and Cajun blackened seasoning.

It’s also a good snack option for gluten-free customers who are craving bold flavor without the hassle of frying. Your taste buds will be satisfied with every bite of these tenders that is juicy, smoky, savory, and mildly spicy.

Chicken Blackened Tenders Allergens

• Soy (found in the oil)
• Milk (cross-contamination risk)
• Egg (cross-contamination risk)

​Blackened Chicken Tenders Nutrition

Popeyes Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe

Blackened Chicken Tenders are famous for their bold, smoky flavors, and you can recreate them at home by following these easy steps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tbsp cooking oil or olive oil

For the Blackened Seasoning:

• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken breast into even-sized strips.
• Rinse the chicken strips with water at normal temperature.
• Pat dry using paper towels.

2. Make the Blackened Seasoning

• In a bowl, mix together:
  • Paprika
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Dried thyme
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
• Stir until the seasoning is well combined.

3. Season the Chicken

• Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the chicken strips.
• Drizzle 2 tablespoons of cooking oil or olive oil over the chicken.
• Rub the mixture thoroughly to coat each strip well.

4. Cook the Chicken

• Heat some cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan.
• Cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and nicely blackened.

5. Serve

• Transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

What People Love

• This sandwich blew my mind. I’ve had it three times this week already!
• The seasoning is fantastic. Honestly, it might be better than the fried version.
• Crispy outside, juicy inside — it’s shocking how close it feels to fried chicken.
• Great option if you want something lighter but still full of flavor.

Customization Options

Common Complaints

• Mine came out a bit overcooked, but the flavor was still really good.
• It was way too salty for me.
• The chicken was dry, like overcooked grilled meat.
• Prep quality depends on the location and time — sometimes juicy, sometimes dry.

Add-Ons Available at Most Locations

• Havarti Cheese — adds a creamy, mild sharpness (+$1.50)
• Applewood Smoked Bacon — gives it a crispy, savory kick (+$1.50)
• Spicy Mayo — swaps the classic mayo for heat and extra flavor
• Extra Pickles — for that added crunch and tang

Best Pairing

1. Cajun Fries
   • Order or prepare fries seasoned with Cajun spice.
   • Serve hot for a crispy, salty, and slightly spicy side.
2. Mashed Potatoes with Cajun Gravy
   • Make creamy mashed potatoes (butter + milk for smoothness).
   • Top with warm Cajun-style brown gravy.
   • Serve alongside chicken for a rich, hearty combo.
3. Mac & Cheese
   • Prepare elbow macaroni and mix with melted cheddar cheese sauce.
   • Bake or serve creamy for ultimate comfort food.
   • A kid-friendly, cheesy pairing.

Customize in the Popeyes App

1. Open the Popeyes App
   • Download and open the app on your phone.
   • Navigate to the sandwich or tender meal section.
2. Build Your Sandwich or Meal
   • Choose your protein (e.g., classic, spicy, blackened tenders).
   • Select your bun or wrap.
3. Swap Buns for Lettuce Wrap
   • Select “Lettuce Wrap” instead of traditional buns.
   • Ideal for low-carb or keto-friendly eating.
4. Add Double Chicken
   • Tap to “Add Extra Chicken” for double meat.
   • Perfect for extra protein or a heartier meal.
5. Select Sides and Drink
   • Add Cajun Fries, Mashed Potatoes, or Mac & Cheese.
   • Pick your preferred drink to complete the meal.
6. Place Order & Enjoy!
   • Review your customizations.
   • Place the order for pickup or delivery.

Release Timeline & Availability: Is It Still on the Menu?

1. Initial Launch (Limited-Time Offer)

• Date: November 15, 2022
• Type: Limited-Time Offer (LTO)
• Impact: Quickly gained popularity, even among people who don’t typically eat fast food

2. Permanent Menu Addition

• Date: June 6, 2023
• Regions: United States and Canada
• Notable Fact: First permanent Popeyes menu item since the viral 2019 Chicken Sandwich
• Bonus: Popeyes Rewards members received 200 bonus points upon ordering

3. Special Promotions

• Dates: April 17–20, 2024
• Event: Featured on Popeyes’ “Munchies Menu”
• Offer: Price reduced to $4.20 via the Popeyes app
• Fan Reaction: A major hit among loyal fans during the limited promo

4. Current Availability

• Yes — Still Available at Most U.S. Locations
• Not Officially Listed on the Menu
• You can still order it in-store or through the app, but it may not be visibly advertised
• Tip: Ask directly at the counter if you don’t see it listed!

Review

The Popeyes Blackened Tenders are a non-breaded version of regular chicken tenders that has a taste of Cajun in every bite. They are coated with a special coating of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs, making them flavorful and tender. We paired this item with strawberries biscuits and fries to balance out the heat of Cajun spices. If you’re looking for something lighter or less greasy, these tenders are perfect. Blackened Tenders at Popeyes restaurant were excellent; the quantity and quality justified the price.

FAQ’s