Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Sticky Chicken Fingers Salad is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines the irresistible crunch of perfectly baked chicken tenders with a fresh, vibrant salad that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure proper sauce adherence and even cooking.
- Place chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation.
- Brush the chicken tenders generously with barbecue sauce, coating each piece completely on both sides.
- Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through and brushing with additional sauce.
- Check that chicken is fully cooked by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- While chicken is baking, prepare the salad by combining mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a large serving bowl.
- Once chicken is done, let it rest for 3-5 minutes to retain moisture and allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice the sticky chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces and arrange on top of the prepared salad.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately while chicken is still warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry before saucing to ensure the barbecue sauce sticks perfectly and creates a deliciously crispy exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken is cooked to the perfect 165°F (74°C) – no guesswork, just perfectly cooked chicken every time!
- For extra flavor, try experimenting with different barbecue sauces – smoky, sweet, or spicy varieties can completely transform the dish.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to lock in those delicious juices and maintain maximum tenderness.
- For a low-carb option, you can substitute the ranch dressing with a lighter vinaigrette or homemade Greek yogurt dressing.
- Prep your salad ingredients while the chicken is baking to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts or crispy bacon bits on top of the salad for extra texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
