Smoky Chipotle Peanut Chicken Tenders are what you make when you want dinner on the table fast, but you’re not willing to give up on flavor.
This meal’s got plenty of protein and relies on just a handful of simple ingredients like powdered peanut butter, barbecue sauce, chipotle peppers, and chicken breast.
You toss everything together in one bowl. The grill does the heavy lifting after that.
All you really need is a basting brush, a grill, and a couple measuring spoons. Doesn’t get much easier than that, honestly.
The result? Juicy chicken with a smoky, slightly spicy kick. It’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep—seriously, it just works.
The sauce doubles as a dip, so every bite packs in extra flavor. If you’re hunting for healthy chicken breast recipes, this one’s about as easy as it gets.
Just gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and you’re pretty much set. It’s the kind of dinner people ask for again.
Why You’ll Love This Smoky Chipotle Peanut Chicken Tenders
Ready in 15 Minutes
You can get this meal from prep to plate in just 15 minutes, making it great for busy nights.
High-Protein and Healthy
Chicken breast and peanut butter powder make these tenders high in protein and lower in fat.
Big, Bold Flavor
Chipotle peppers in adobo and barbecue sauce give a smoky and spicy flavor you won’t forget.
Easy to Make
Minimal prep and a simple sauce make this recipe straightforward, even if you’re new to grilling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap for Peanut Butter Powder
Use regular creamy peanut butter if you don’t have powdered peanut butter. Just thin it with a bit of warm water.
No Chipotle Peppers?
Substitute with ½ teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Chicken Options
Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breast for a juicier texture.
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Don’t have an Outdoor Grill? This Indoor Grill is the one we use, and recommend:
Healthy Chipotle Peanut Chicken Tenders
Recipes are written with one action per step for accessibility. Short lines. Fewer rereads. A calmer kitchen on mobile or desktop.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup powdered peanut butter
- 2 tablespoon warm water
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter melted
- 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breast cut into 8 tenders
- 2 tablespoon chopped scallions
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered peanut butter and warm water until smooth.
- Stir in the barbecue sauce, chipotle peppers in adobo, chili powder, and melted butter until fully combined.
- Place the chicken tenders in the bowl and turn to coat all sides with the sauce.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and coat with cooking spray.
- Lay the chicken tenders on the grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through.
- Brush the tops of the tenders with some of the remaining sauce and cook for 1 more minute.
- Move the chicken to a plate and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
- Serve the tenders with the rest of the sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Prepping the Grill – Brush the grill or grill pan lightly with oil or use cooking spray before adding the chicken to prevent sticking. Sauce Consistency – If your sauce seems too thick, add a little extra warm water, one teaspoon at a time, until it’s easy to brush on.Storing and Reheating
To Store – Place leftover chicken tenders and sauce in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on Stovetop – Place a serving in a saucepan with 1 to 2 tablespoons water. Warm over low heat, stirring until heated through. To Freeze – Wrap the cooked chicken tenders tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.Nutrition
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