Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders are a bold and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With their crispy coating and fiery seasoning, these tenders deliver the perfect balance of crunch, heat, and juiciness. Ideal as a party appetizer, lunch, or game-day snack, they’re a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chicken tenders are incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare. The spicy breading packs just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the natural flavor of the chicken. Their crisp, golden crust and tender, juicy interior make them a standout choice for spice lovers. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for a meal or snack that never disappoints.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Bread crumbs (panko or regular)
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Hot sauce (optional, for added spice in the marinade)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
directions
- In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add a dash of hot sauce if desired.
- Place the bread crumbs in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat with bread crumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and makes approximately 12 chicken tenders. The total time required is about 35 minutes, including preparation and cooking.
Variations
- Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes for a healthier alternative.
- Extra Spicy: Double the cayenne or add crushed red pepper flakes to the breading.
- Buttermilk Marinade: Soak chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for extra tenderness and flavor before breading.
- Cheesy Crust: Mix grated Parmesan into the bread crumbs for added flavor and crispiness.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, simply cut the chicken breasts into strips for similar results.
How do I make the coating stick better?
Ensure each step (flour, egg, then breadcrumbs) is followed thoroughly and press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken.
What oil is best for frying?
Use neutral oils with high smoke points such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
How spicy are these tenders?
The heat is moderate, but you can adjust the cayenne and hot sauce to your taste.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a suitable alternative.
What dipping sauces pair well with these?
Ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard, or spicy mayo are all excellent options.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours before frying.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) and juices should run clear.
Can I freeze these tenders?
Yes, freeze after breading or once cooked. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What sides go well with spicy chicken tenders?
They pair well with coleslaw, fries, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders are a delicious and versatile dish that delivers bold flavor and satisfying crunch. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these tenders make a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Customizable to suit your spice preference, they’re a go-to favorite for both casual dinners and entertaining.
Print
Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (12 tenders) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders are crispy, golden strips of chicken with a fiery kick from cayenne and hot sauce. Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or game-day snack, they’re tender inside and boldly seasoned outside.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- In a second bowl, beat eggs and add hot sauce if using.
- Place bread crumbs in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour mixture, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat with bread crumbs. Press to adhere well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra heat, double the cayenne or add crushed red pepper to the breading.
- Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Try a buttermilk and hot sauce marinade before breading for added tenderness.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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