Introduction

Chicken tenders are a beloved dish that appeals to both children and adults alike. Whether you’re serving them as a meal, a snack, or at a party, this chicken tender recipe is sure to impress. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chicken tenders are easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy a healthier version of this classic comfort food.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast: 2 large, cut into strips
– All-purpose flour: 1 cup
– Buttermilk: 1 cup
– Breadcrumbs: 2 cups
– Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
– Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
– Paprika: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: 1 teaspoon
– Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
– Eggs: 2, beaten
– Oil for frying

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

This chicken tender recipe is a straightforward and delicious option for anyone looking to whip up a satisfying meal. By following the listed ingredients and times, you’ll be able to enjoy homemade chicken tenders that are far superior to any store-bought version.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot enough for baking the chicken tenders.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Crumbs

In a shallow dish, mix together the bread crumbs, along with any desired spices or seasonings.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with the seasoned bread crumbs for coating the chicken tenders.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Take a chicken tender, coat it in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally cover it with the bread crumbs. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even coating.

Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken tenders on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken Tenders

Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Note 1: Marinating Option

Consider marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk or a flavored marinade for added moisture and flavor.

Note 2: Gluten-Free Alternative

You can use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitution for traditional bread crumbs.

Note 3: Cooking Variations

For a crispier texture, you can spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking.

Note 4: Storage Guidelines

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating chicken tenders helps to infuse them with flavor and moisture. A simple marinade can be made with buttermilk, spices, and herbs, allowing the chicken to soak for a few hours or overnight.

Breading

Breading chicken tenders involves coating them with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This technique creates a crispy exterior, ensuring a delightful crunch when cooked.

Frying

Frying is a method that cooks the chicken tenders quickly in hot oil, resulting in a golden crust while keeping the inside juicy. Deep frying yields the best results in terms of texture.

Baking

Baking offers a healthier alternative to frying, allowing the chicken tenders to cook evenly in the oven. This method can be just as flavorful if seasoned properly.

Pan-searing

Pan-searing involves cooking the chicken tenders in a hot skillet with a little oil. This technique creates a nice golden crust while ensuring the inside is cooked through.

FAQ

How long should I marinate chicken tenders?

Marinating chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.

Can I bake chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Yes, baking chicken tenders is a healthier cooking option that can still yield delicious results when seasoned properly.

What type of oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices for frying chicken tenders due to their high smoke points.

How do I ensure my chicken tenders are juicy?

Marinating and cooking at the right temperature helps to keep the chicken tenders juicy. Avoid overcooking them.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, frozen chicken tenders can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed and pat dry before cooking for the best result.

Conclusion

The chicken tender recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it serves as an excellent meal option for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even as a snack. By following the right techniques and utilizing fresh ingredients, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chicken Tender Wraps

Wrap your crispy chicken tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and a flavorful sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Toss your chicken tenders in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist, perfect for serving with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.

Chicken Tender Salad

Add sliced chicken tenders to a bed of mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a healthy meal option.

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Glaze your chicken tenders with a sweet honey garlic sauce for a deliciously sticky and flavorful coating.

Chicken Tender Sandwich

Layer chicken tenders between two slices of bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a classic and hearty sandwich option.