Copycat Blackened Popeyes Tenders: Authentic Cajun Spice Without the Drive-Thru

My obsession with Popeyes Blackened Tenders began during a road trip through Louisiana. After a long day of driving, we pulled into Popeyes outside New Orleans. When I bit into that first tender, the explosion of spices, the perfect juiciness, and that distinctive Cajun heat stopped me. Ever since that trip, I’ve been determined to recreate that authentic blackened flavor in my kitchen. After countless attempts and spice adjustments, this recipe finally captures that unmistakable Popeyes magic. Skip the drive-thru and pan-fry up these homemade Blackened Popeyes Tenders. One bite of these juicy, bold Cajun-spiced chicken tenders will have you thinking you’re eating down on the bayou.

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What makes Popeyes Blackened Chicken Tenders so good?

Popeyes Blackened Tenders bring the heat and are incredibly juicy and loaded with the classic flavors you love. It all starts with a quick brine to lock in the moisture and then a generous coating of Cajun spices. A fast dance across a hot skillet toasts the herbs and spices, bringing out the authentic taste of the seasonings.

Whether you serve them on their own with a dipping sauce or stuff them into a sandwich, they are sure to impress – guaranteed!

Popeyes Blackened Tenders ingredients and why use them

For the Blackened Popeyes Tenders, you’ll need:

• Water – carries the salt and sugar for the brine. 
• Salt (for brine) – enhances the flavor and helps the chicken tenders stay moist and tender while cooking. 
• White granulated sugar (for brine) – balances out the salt and helps to tenderize the chicken. 
• Chicken tenderloins – are the main protein, and since they are small, they cook through quickly without burning. 
• Cajun seasoning OR the Homemade Cajun Spice Blend from below – gives you the bold Cajun flavors that are the signature of this recipe.
• Vegetable oil for frying – cooks the chicken tenders without adding new flavors. 

While you can make delicious tenders using a store-bought Cajun seasoning like the one from McCormick’s, it is well worth making your own blend if you want the authentic flavor to come out. 

For the Homemade Cajun Spice Blend, you’ll need:

• Salt – brings out the flavor of all the other ingredients in the blend.
• Cayenne pepper – adds heat and that authentic Cajun flavor. 
• Paprika – gives the spice blend warm and a spectacular red color. 
• Garlic powder – delivers a savory umami richness. 
• Ground black pepper – contributes a sharp, earthy heat. 
• Oregano – introduces herbal, slightly bitter notes. 
• Onion powder – supplies a rich, savory flavor. 

How to make Popeyes Blackened Tenders

To prep the chicken:

1. Make a brine by combining water, salt, and white granulated sugar in a large container with a lid. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve. 
2. Trim the fat from the tenders and add them to the brine. 
3. Cover the brine and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes and up to two hours. 
4. While the chicken is in the fridge, you can prepare the Homemade Cajun Spice Blend (directions below). 

To make the Homemade Cajun Spice Blend (optional):

1. Whisk together all the Homemade Cajun Spice Blend ingredients in a small bowl. 
2. Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container and keep for later. 

To finish the Popeyes Blackened Chicken Tenders recipe:

1. Put about half of the Cajun seasoning blend in a large food-safe bag. 
2. Add a few chicken tenders to the bag in batches and shake well to coat. Add more seasoning blend as needed.
3. Shake off any excess seasoning and place the tenders on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet to set for at least five minutes before frying. 
4. When the oil is hot but not smoking, reduce the heat to medium and add the chicken tenders. Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you are using a smaller skillet, you can cook in batches. 
5. Cook the chicken for three to four minutes on the first side and then flip the tenders. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F, about three to four minutes more. 
6. Drain the chicken on paper towels and serve hot. 

What to serve Blackened Cajun Tenders with 

Bring even more New Orleans flair to your kitchen table by pairing Blackened Popeyes Tenders with these Louisiana-inspired sides:

Red Beans and Rice. Easy, cheap, and filling. There is no other rice dish quite like Cajun Red Beans and Rice. The smoked ham hock and real lard make all the difference in this recipe, so don’t shy away from using them!

Cajun Fried Corn. Combining the sweetness of fresh corn with the heat of Cajun spices is genius. Wingstop’s Cajun Fried Corn may not be authentically Cajun, but that doesn’t prevent this recipe from being delicious and a must-try. 

New Orleans Rum Cake. Not everything from Cajun country needs to be spicy, like this decadent cake. This recipe embraces the city’s history with its booze, warm cooking spices, and plenty of nuts. With a bite of New Orleans Rum Cake, you’ll be transported to a cafe in the French Quarter. 

How to store & reheat 

You can keep any unused extra Cajun Spice Seasoning Blend in an airtight container in the cupboard for several months. Tightly wrapped chicken tenders will stay fresh for three days in the fridge. 

To reheat: 

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. 
2. Place a wire rack over a rimmed baking dish and lay out the chicken tenders on top.
3. Cook the tenders for 10 to 12 minutes, turning midway through the cooking time. 

Blackened Popeyes Chicken Tenders | Spicy Cajun Copycat

These juicy homemade Blackened Popeyes Tenders deliver authentic Louisiana flavor with a perfect blend of Cajun spices pan-fried to lock in moisture and maximize heat.