Crispy Homemade Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Indulging in crispy, flavorful chicken tenders is a universal pleasure that transcends age, cuisine, and culinary preferences. At Love With Recipes, we understand that a truly addictive chicken tender experience involves more than just frying chicken strips; it encompasses a harmonious blend of seasoned breading, perfect cooking methods, and irresistible dipping sauces that leave you craving more. These tenders are more than just a snack—they are a celebration of comfort food, crafted with attention to detail to ensure each bite delivers a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a family dinner, or entertaining guests, mastering the art of making addictive chicken tenders is a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.

Time

The total time required to prepare and cook addictive chicken tenders generally ranges from 40 to 50 minutes. This includes preparation, breading, cooking, and serving stages, with the actual active cooking time being approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your chosen method (frying or baking). For optimal results, plan ahead by organizing your ingredients and equipment, which streamlines the process and minimizes downtime.

Needed Equipment

• Cutting board and sharp chef’s knife — for slicing chicken breasts into strips
• Measuring cups and spoons — for precise ingredient measurement
• Mixing bowls — at least three, for flour, eggs/buttermilk, and breadcrumb mixture
• Whisk or fork — for beating eggs or buttermilk
• Shallow dishes or plates — to set up breading stations
• Tongs — for handling chicken strips during breading and cooking
• Deep-frying pan or large skillet — for frying method
• Cooking thermometer — to monitor oil temperature and ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly
• Baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat — if baking
• Cooling rack — to drain excess oil and keep tenders crispy (for frying)
• Kitchen towel or paper towels — for blotting excess oil after frying
• Oven mitts and utensils — for handling hot equipment safely

Tags

Chicken, Finger Food, Fried, Baked, Appetizer, Snack, Comfort Food, Easy Recipes, Family-Friendly, Party Food

Serving Size

Each serving typically consists of 4 to 6 chicken tenders, depending on their size and the appetite of the diners. For nutritional calculations and meal planning, a standard serving is approximately 150 grams of cooked tenders, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce and optional side dishes.

Difficulty Level

This recipe ranks as Easy to Moderate, suitable for beginner cooks with some basic kitchen skills. The breading process requires attention but is straightforward once you understand the station setup. Frying requires careful temperature control to ensure crispy exterior and fully cooked interior. Baking is simpler but may require adjustments for optimal crispiness.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is adaptable for various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs
• Low-Carb/Keto: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour
• Paleo: Use almond flour or coconut flour with paleo-approved seasonings
• Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower, and eggs with flaxseed or aquafaba

Course

Appetizer, Snack, Main Course (when served with sides)

Cuisine

American, Comfort Food, Fast Food

Ingredients

Ingredient Table

Instructions

Preparation of Chicken

Begin by thoroughly rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice each breast into strips approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch wide. Ensure uniformity in size to promote even cooking. Season the chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor. For a basic flavor profile, a pinch of paprika or garlic powder can be added at this stage, but these will also be incorporated into the breading mixture for consistency.

Setting Up the Breading Station

Arrange your workspace for efficient breading. Place the flour in a shallow dish or plate; this will serve as the initial coating layer. In a separate bowl, pour in the eggs and beat them lightly with a fork or whisk until smooth. If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan alternative, substitute with buttermilk or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for binding. In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs with seasonings — paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper — mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.

Breading the Chicken Tenders

Begin by dredging each chicken strip in the flour, ensuring an even coating. Tap off any excess flour. Next, submerge the floured chicken in the beaten eggs, coating all sides thoroughly, which helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere properly. Finally, roll the chicken strip in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb process for a double coat. Place the breaded tenders on a tray lined with parchment paper or a wire rack to prevent sticking and maintain crispiness.

Cooking Methods

Frying Method

Heat vegetable oil in a deep-frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, avoiding overcrowding to maintain oil temperature. Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. The tenders are done when they are golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Use tongs to remove the tenders and transfer them to a cooling rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Baking Method

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray to encourage crispiness. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. For extra crispiness, use convection baking if your oven has this feature. Keep an eye on the tenders to prevent over-browning.

Serve Immediately

Once cooked, serve your addictive chicken tenders hot with a variety of dipping sauces. For presentation, arrange tenders on a platter with a small bowl of sauce in the center or at each end. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. These tenders are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, they can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F/90°C) for 10-15 minutes without losing their crispiness.

Preparation Tips

• Ensure even-sized chicken strips for uniform cooking and crispy texture.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs or freshly toasted panko for maximum crunch.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
• Maintain oil temperature during frying to prevent sogginess and ensure crispiness.
• For a healthier option, try baking or air-frying with minimal oil and using whole-grain or gluten-free coatings.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Double coating the chicken with egg and breadcrumbs creates an extra crispy exterior.
• Using panko breadcrumbs significantly enhances crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• If frying, maintain the oil temperature to avoid greasy tenders; too cold, and they become soggy; too hot, they burn.
• For even cooking, bring chicken to room temperature before breading and frying.
• Experiment with seasoning blends—cumin, chili powder, or Italian herbs—to customize flavor profiles.

Add-ons

• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over cooked tenders during the last minute of baking for a cheesy crust.
• Spicy Coating: Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chipotle powder to the breading for heat.
• Herb Variations: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture.

Side Dishes

• Classic French fries or sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw or tangy salad
• Steamed vegetables or roasted veggies
• Macaroni and cheese
• Vegetable sticks with dip (celery, carrot, cucumber)

Improvements

• Use buttermilk marinade before breading for tender, flavorful chicken.
• Introduce a dry spice rub before breading for added flavor complexity.
• Try different coatings like crushed cornflakes or seasoned pretzels for varied texture.
• Incorporate a hint of sweetness with honey or maple syrup into the dipping sauce.

Save and Store

Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, which helps maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the breading soggy. For longer storage, freeze cooked tenders in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer to preserve crunch.

FAQ

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. Baking reduces oil content and makes the dish healthier. Just ensure the tenders are evenly coated and baked at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.

What dipping sauces work best?

Popular options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or a spicy aioli. Feel free to customize based on your taste preferences or create a variety for guests.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Visual cues include a crispy exterior and no pinkness in the chicken meat.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions, such as almond flour, coconut flour, or gluten-free panko. Seasonings should be checked for gluten content as well.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of making addictive chicken tenders offers a delightful way to elevate your snack and meal options. The combination of crispy coating, tender chicken, and flavorful dipping sauces creates an irresistible experience that can be tailored to suit your dietary preferences and taste buds. Whether you prefer the classic fried version or a healthier baked variation, this versatile recipe allows for endless customization and experimentation. Remember, the secret to truly addictive tenders lies in quality ingredients, precise technique, and creative seasoning. For more innovative recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Love With Recipes—your trusted platform for delicious, well-crafted dishes.

References

• Serious Eats: The Science of Perfect Fried Chicken
• America’s Test Kitchen: Chicken Tenders with Crispy Coating