Perfectly Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe

The moment you take a bite of these crispy chicken tenders, your taste buds will dance with joy. Imagine that golden-brown exterior crackling as you sink your teeth into juicy chicken; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Picture a platter full of these delights at your next family gathering—your friends will be begging for the recipe while you bask in your culinary glory.

I remember the first time I made these beauties; my friends practically attacked the kitchen like they were on a mission! The laughter and joyful chaos that ensued will forever be etched in my memory. So let’s dive into this delicious experience together!

I still chuckle when my cousin couldn’t stop praising these tenders at our last family barbecue.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
• All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting gives our tenders that initial crunch; use unbleached if possible for a more natural flavor.
• Eggs: Two large eggs add moisture and help the coating stick beautifully; whisk them until frothy.
• Bread Crumbs: Use panko for an ultra-crispy texture; seasoned varieties can add an extra flavor punch.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika are must-haves; feel free to get creative with other spices!
• Cooking Oil: Choose vegetable or canola oil for frying; it withstands high heat without burning easily.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Get ready to create some magic in the kitchen. Follow along step-by-step!

Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting each chicken breast into strips about one inch wide. This ensures even cooking and makes them finger-friendly.

Dredge Time: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with whisked eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.

Coat Those Strips!: Dip each chicken strip into flour first (shake off excess), then into egg (let it drip), and finally coat it generously in breadcrumbs. Ensure every inch is covered to create that satisfying crunch.

Heat Up That Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat, pour enough oil to cover about half an inch of the bottom. Heat until shimmering but not smoking—aiming for around 350°F (175°C).

Fry Until Golden!: Carefully add breaded strips one at a time into hot oil without crowding them. Fry until golden brown—about 4-5 minutes per side—flipping only once for even crispiness.

Drain & Serve!: Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), remove them from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

Now you’re ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy those crispy chicken tenders fresh from the pan!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by breading your chicken tenders, then let them rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better and results in a perfectly crispy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices! Add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs for a flavor boost that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Cooking these crispy chicken tenders reminded me of the first time I hosted friends for dinner; they devoured them and begged for the recipe!

FAQ

How can I make gluten-free crispy chicken tenders?

Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as substitutes for traditional breadcrumbs.

Can I bake crispy chicken tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake them at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

What dipping sauces pair well with crispy chicken tenders?

Try honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for delicious dipping options!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Perfectly Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

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Description

Crispy chicken tenders are a delightful comfort food that combines a crunchy exterior with juicy chicken, making them a hit for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying (enough to cover half an inch in the pan)

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Instructions

1. Cut each chicken breast into strips approximately one inch wide.
2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with whisked eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
3. Coat each chicken strip by dipping it in flour, then egg, followed by breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
5. Fry the breaded strips in hot oil for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. Remove cooked tenders and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

• Allow breaded strips to rest for 10 minutes before frying for better coating adherence.
•  Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 tenders (150g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 110mg