Who doesn't love a good plate of chicken tenders? They're not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make at home. In this blog post, we'll guide you through a simple yet flavorful chicken tenders recipe that ensures your chicken tenders are crispy, tender, and full of flavor. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a party, or just craving some comfort food, this recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
- Optional: sauces for dipping like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Tenders
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips. Ensure that the chicken pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
2. Create the Breading Station:
- Set up three stations:
- First station: Mix flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, and onion powders in a shallow dish.
- Second station: Whisk the eggs in another shallow dish.
- Third station: Spread the Panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- One by one, dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring it's well coated.
- Shake off the excess and then dip into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, roll the chicken in the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place breaded chicken on a tray or plate.
4. Heat the Oil:
- Fill a skillet or deep fryer with oil to about 1-2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
5. Fry the Chicken Tenders:
- Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
- Cook each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oil and let drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep the breading crisp.
🍽️ Note: For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the frying pan. It ensures even cooking and less steam, which helps keep your tenders crunchy.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch factor.
- To keep your kitchen tidy, use a plastic bag or container for the flour and breadcrumb mixes to contain the mess.
- Always use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for consistent frying.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your crispy chicken tenders with a variety of dips. Here’s a quick table with some popular options:
Dip Flavor Profile Honey Mustard Sweet and Tangy Barbecue Smoky, Sweet, and Spicy Ranch Creamy and Mild Blue Cheese Sharp and Tangy 
- Pair with fries, salad, or even stuff them into a wrap for a delightful meal.
To Sum It Up
Making crispy chicken tenders at home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With this straightforward recipe, you’re equipped to produce chicken tenders that are not only succulent but also boast a delightful crunch. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some comfort food or impress your guests, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of cooking and, more importantly, savor the delicious results!
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?
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Yes, you can bake chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After breading, place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as deep-fried, but you can achieve a nice crunch by spritzing them with a bit of oil before baking.
How do I store and reheat leftover chicken tenders?
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Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
What can I substitute for Panko breadcrumbs?
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If you don’t have Panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even blend seasoned croutons into a fine crumb for a similar effect. However, these alternatives might not yield the same level of crunch as Panko.
