Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Tenders are one of the most universally loved dishes that have earned their place in kitchens and restaurants around the world. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and easy to make, making them a go-to meal for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a hit at your table. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just a few basic ingredients come together to create a crispy, golden, and flavorful treat.

Chicken tenders can be served with a wide range of dipping sauces, from honey mustard to ranch or even a spicy sriracha mayo, making them perfect for a fun and customizable meal. This recipe will guide you through the steps of preparing restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home, with tips for achieving that perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tenders

• Crispy and Golden: The coating on the chicken tenders ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the inside remains juicy and tender.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make chicken tenders at home that rival your favorite restaurant versions.
• Customizable: You can easily customize the breading, seasonings, and dipping sauces to suit your personal taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love chicken tenders, making them an ideal dish for family dinners, parties, or casual get-togethers.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a snack, chicken tenders can be enjoyed in many different ways, making them incredibly versatile.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 12 tenders)
• Calories per Serving: 300-400 calories, depending on portion size and preparation method.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-400 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts (cut into strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying (or olive oil for healthier baking option)

For the Dipping Sauces (Optional):

• Honey mustard
• Ranch dressing
• BBQ sauce
• Sriracha mayo (mix mayonnaise and sriracha sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by washing and patting the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into strips, about 1-inch wide, to make them similar in size to tenders. This will help them cook evenly. Season the chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper, and set them aside while you prepare the breading mixture.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

To bread the chicken tenders, you’ll need three shallow bowls or plates for the breading station. Here’s how to set it up:

• Bowl 1: Place the flour in the first bowl and season it with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and dried oregano (optional). Stir to combine.
• Bowl 2: Crack the eggs into the second bowl and whisk them until well-beaten.
• Bowl 3: Combine the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese (optional) in the third bowl.

3. Coat the Chicken Tenders

Take each chicken strip and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat this process with all the chicken tenders.

At this point, the chicken tenders are breaded and ready to be cooked. You can also refrigerate them for 10-15 minutes to help the coating set and adhere better.

4. Fry the Chicken Tenders

In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—it should sizzle immediately. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You can check the doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken tenders are done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining tenders.

5. Bake Option for Healthier Tenders

If you prefer to bake your chicken tenders for a healthier version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake the tenders for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

6. Serve the Chicken Tenders

Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you go with classic honey mustard, tangy BBQ sauce, or creamy ranch, these crispy chicken tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Add a side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad to make a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders

• Use Fresh Chicken: Always use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture. If you’re using frozen chicken tenders, be sure to thaw them completely before breading and cooking.
• Season the Breading: Don’t forget to season each component of the breading. The flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture should all be flavorful to ensure the chicken has a delicious coating.
• Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy texture, consider dipping the chicken tenders in the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs, and repeating the process. This double coating will give your tenders an even crunchier exterior.
• Use Panko for Crunch: If you want the crispiest chicken tenders, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter, giving the chicken a wonderful crunch.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil is too cold, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. The perfect temperature for frying is around 350°F (175°C).
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken tenders in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and cause the tenders to cook unevenly.
• Rest After Frying: After frying, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the coating set and keeps the chicken juicy.

Variations of Chicken Tenders

• Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the breading mixture for a spicy kick. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce like buffalo sauce or sriracha mayo.
• Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders: For a cheesy twist, mix grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture. This will give the tenders a crispy, cheesy coating that adds extra flavor.
• Herb-Infused Chicken Tenders: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for a herby, aromatic flavor.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use almond flour, rice flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs for the breading.
• Chicken Tender Wraps: Wrap the cooked tenders in a tortilla with your favorite veggies, cheese, and sauce for a quick and satisfying wrap.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken tenders are best served fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Allow the tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, you can reheat the tenders in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

If you have leftover breaded but uncooked chicken tenders, you can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. To freeze uncooked tenders, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry or bake directly from frozen.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders pair perfectly with a variety of sides and dips to make a complete meal. Here are some great options:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: The classic pairing for chicken tenders, fries are always a hit. You can also try crispy sweet potato fries for a slightly healthier alternative.
• Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw complements the crispy chicken tenders and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes provide a rich, comforting side that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve your chicken tenders with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a healthy, balanced meal.
• Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent side, garlic bread is a great accompaniment to chicken tenders.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken tenders and make for a light, refreshing side.

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Conclusion

Chicken Tenders are a timeless favorite that are both delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a party, or just as a quick snack, these crispy, golden tenders are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and versatile dish that everyone will love. By following this simple recipe and adding your favorite seasonings and sauces, you’ll have perfectly crispy chicken tenders in no time. Enjoy!