Crispy chicken tenders are a classic favorite, featuring juicy chicken coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy breading. These homemade tenders are easy to prepare, making them a great option for a quick dinner, snack, or party appetizer. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients.
- Easy to customize with different seasonings and coatings.
- A great homemade alternative to store-bought or fast-food versions.
- Ideal for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Milk
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Regular breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cooking oil for frying
Directions
- Prepare the Breading Stations: In three separate bowls, place flour in the first, whisk eggs and milk in the second, and combine panko, regular breadcrumbs, and seasonings in the third.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Tenders: Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Spicy Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Parmesan-Crusted: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb coating.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
How do I make chicken tenders extra crispy?
Using a combination of panko and regular breadcrumbs ensures a crispier texture. Double-coating the chicken can also add extra crunch.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.
What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, work best.
Can I make these tenders without frying?
Yes, you can bake or air-fry them for a healthier alternative.
How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Ensure the chicken is dry before coating, and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface. Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before frying.
What dipping sauces go well with crispy chicken tenders?
Popular options include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, and ketchup.
Can I marinate the chicken before breading?
Yes, marinating in buttermilk for a few hours will make the chicken extra tender and flavorful.
How do I prevent the tenders from getting soggy?
Drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispiness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the tenders and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying.
How do I reheat chicken tenders without drying them out?
Reheating in the oven or air fryer helps retain crispiness while preventing them from becoming dry.
Conclusion
Homemade crispy chicken tenders are a simple yet satisfying dish that everyone will love. With their crunchy coating and juicy interior, they make a perfect meal or snack. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Try different variations and serve with your favorite dipping sauces for the best experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These crispy chicken tenders are golden brown, perfectly crunchy, and incredibly juicy inside. Made with a flavorful breading and fried to perfection, they make a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In three separate bowls, prepare the breading station:
- Bowl 1: Flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the tenders by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step.
- Use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a healthier version, cooking for 10-12 minutes.
- Great with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
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