Easy Homemade Chicken Tenders Recipe. Crispy & Delicious
Chicken tenders are a classic, easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any meal. They're crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loved by kids and adults alike. This recipe will guide you through creating delicious chicken tenders that can be enjoyed as a main dish or a satisfying snack. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, these tenders are perfect for those who want to cook their own food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
Prepare the Breading Station. In one shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Coat the Chicken. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
Heat the Oil. In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
Fry the Chicken. Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain and Serve. Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe tips
For an extra crispy coating, you can dredge the chicken strips in the flour and egg mixture twice before coating them in breadcrumbs. Add extra herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for more flavor. If you prefer a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken strips in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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