5 Mouthwatering Chicken Tender Recipes You'll Love

If you're anything like me, then chicken tenders are a comfort food staple in your kitchen. But who says they have to be mundane? With a little creativity, chicken tenders can be transformed into delectable dishes that can elevate any meal. Here are five mouthwatering chicken tender recipes that you're sure to love!

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Tenders

Imagine the perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess, all encased around a crispy chicken tender. That’s what you get with this recipe. Here’s how to make them:

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb chicken tenders
• ¹⁄₂ cup Dijon mustard
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
2. Mix the Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic powder in a bowl to create the glaze.
3. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper, then coat each tender in the honey mustard mixture.
4. Press each coated tender into panko breadcrumbs until well covered.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and lightly fry the tenders until golden on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Brush with extra honey mustard glaze before serving.

⭐ Note: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Bacon Wrapped Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Wrap your tenders in savory bacon, add a kick of Parmesan cheese, and you have yourself an indulgent treat. Here’s the method:

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 8 slices of bacon
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Olive oil spray
• Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Mix Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
3. Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
4. Roll the bacon-wrapped tenders in the cheese mixture, pressing to adhere.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Spicy Coconut Chicken Tenders

For a taste of the tropics with a kick, try these:

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¹⁄₄ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Oil for frying
• Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (177°C).
2. Mix coconut, panko, chili powder, and garlic powder in a bowl.
3. Coat each tender in flour, dip in the beaten egg, then roll in the coconut mixture.
4. Fry until golden brown and chicken is cooked through, about 3-4 minutes each side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for balance.

Lemon Herb Chicken Tenders

A refreshing twist that’s perfect for lighter meals:

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb chicken tenders
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme
• ¹⁄₄ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken tenders in lemon zest, juice, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high.
3. Grill the tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side, basting with leftover marinade.
4. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Tenders

This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, offering a surprise of cheese in every bite:

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded mozzarella
• ¹⁄₄ cup spinach, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs for coating
• Egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp milk)
• Instructions:
1. Mix cream cheese, mozzarella, spinach, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Cut a small pocket in each tender and stuff with the cheese mixture.
3. Dip each stuffed tender in egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Fry or bake until golden brown and cheese is melted.
5. Allow to cool slightly before serving to prevent cheese from leaking out.

These chicken tender recipes are not only easy to make but also offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, spicy, or just downright indulgent. Next time you find yourself craving chicken tenders, give one of these recipes a try and impress your taste buds and your dinner guests.

In summing up, these dishes showcase how versatile chicken tenders can be. From the tangy Honey Mustard Glazed to the surprising Cheesy Stuffed, these recipes are sure to elevate your meal times. Each recipe brings its unique flavors, ensuring that chicken tenders can be much more than a simple snack or side. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen with these flavorful ideas!

Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken tenders?

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Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just cut them into strips that are similar in size to tenders for consistent cooking.

What can I serve with these chicken tenders?

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These tenders pair well with a variety of sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, green beans, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

How do I store and reheat leftover chicken tenders?

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness, or in a microwave for convenience, though they might lose some crunchiness.