Chicken tenders, also known as chicken fingers or chicken strips, are a beloved comfort food worldwide. These tender strips of chicken are perfect for a variety of meals and snacks, ranging from simple snacks to indulgent meals. In this post, we'll explore 5 delicious chicken tender recipes that are not only easy to make but also a treat for your taste buds. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, these recipes will ensure that your chicken tenders are the talk of the town.
1. Classic Southern Fried Chicken Tenders
The classic Southern Fried Chicken Tenders have an irresistible crunch and juicy interior. Here's how to make them:
- Marinate: Soak chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Coating: Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Double Dip: Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, dip in egg wash, then coat again in the flour for an extra crunchy exterior.
- Fry: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry tenders until golden brown and cooked through, roughly 4-5 minutes.
- Drain: Place the fried tenders on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
🐔 Note: For an authentic Southern touch, serve with white gravy or a honey mustard dip for an extra flavor boost.
2. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders
If you're looking for something a bit more refined, try these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders:
- Ingredients: Chicken tenders, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, egg, and garlic.
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasoning in one bowl; beat the egg in another.
- Coating: Dip each tender in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cooking: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tenders are crispy and cooked through.
🧀 Note: For a lower calorie option, lightly spray the tenders with olive oil before baking for a similar crunch with less oil.
3. Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders
For a sweet and sticky treat, try the Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders:
- Marinade: Mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Marinate the tenders for at least 30 minutes.
- Cooking: Grill or broil the tenders for 6-8 minutes, brushing frequently with the marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.
🍯 Note: Ensure you cook the marinade before brushing to avoid any health risks from raw chicken juice.
4. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Spice up your menu with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders:
- Cooking: Bake or fry the chicken tenders as per your preferred method from above.
- Buffalo Sauce: Melt butter and mix with Frank's RedHot or your favorite hot sauce.
- Coat: Toss the cooked tenders in the Buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Serve: With blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks.
🔥 Note: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your heat tolerance; start small if you're not a fan of too much spice.
5. Chicken Tender Stir-Fry
Turn chicken tenders into an Asian-inspired dish with this Chicken Tender Stir-Fry:
- Preparation: Cut tenders into bite-sized pieces.
- Cooking: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet. Stir-fry chicken with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.
- Sauce: Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and a bit of cornstarch for thickness.
- Finish: Add sauce to the stir-fry, cook until the sauce thickens, and everything is well coated.
🥢 Note: Serve over jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal experience.
These recipes not only demonstrate the versatility of chicken tenders but also cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. From the crunchy Southern Fried to the exotic flavors of the stir-fry, chicken tenders can be adapted into a plethora of dishes that cater to any palate. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your unique twist on these delectable recipes. Enjoy preparing and savoring these flavorful chicken tenders!
Can I bake chicken tenders instead of frying?
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Absolutely! Baking chicken tenders is a healthier alternative to frying. Simply place your breaded tenders on a baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tenders?
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Chicken tenders go well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with:
- Coleslaw or a mixed green salad
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Macaroni and cheese or mashed potatoes
- Grilled or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
How do I keep chicken tenders crispy after cooking?
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To keep chicken tenders crispy, place them on a wire rack after cooking to allow air circulation, which helps maintain their crunchiness. If you’re storing them, let them cool down completely before refrigerating, then reheat in an oven or air fryer to preserve the texture.
