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Crispy Chicken Tenders

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4 (about 1216 tenders) 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Golden, crunchy chicken tenders perfectly seasoned and fried to juicy, tender perfection—ideal for dipping.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Boneless chicken tenderloins or strips
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Paprika and garlic powder
  • Flour
  • Eggs, beaten
  • Breadcrumbs or panko
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Set up dredging station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in second, breadcrumbs in third.
  3. Coat each piece in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs until fully coated.
  4. Heat oil in skillet to 350°F. Fry chicken tenders in batches 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Serve hot with assorted dipping sauces.

Notes

  • If you prefer to bake the tenders, bake them on a greased rack at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter crunch, while regular breadcrumbs give a denser crust.
  • Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for extra heat.
  • For a juicier texture, marinate the chicken in buttermilk before dredging.
  • To re-crisp leftovers, reheat in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes or use an air fryer for crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tender
  • Calories: 130
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg