Fried chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a favorite for snacks, appetizers, or meals. Easy to make at home, you can customize the flavor to suit your taste and enjoy them anytime.
Why We Love This Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with homemade fried chicken tenders. For starters, they are incredibly versatile. You can tailor the spices and seasonings to match your family’s preferences. Whether you crave something classic with just a touch of seasoning or something a bit daring with hotter spices, you have the freedom to create your perfect dish.
The texture is another winning aspect. The combination of the crunchy panko breading and the juicy chicken creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they are simple to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re hosting friends. You can even involve your kids in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity.
Moreover, let’s not forget about the dipping sauces! You can serve your chicken tenders with an array of sauces – from ketchup and honey mustard to ranch dressing and barbecue sauce. Each dip adds another layer of flavor, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Ingredients for Fried Chicken Tenders
To whip up your batch of crispy fried chicken tenders, you’ll need some simple ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll require:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1/4 cup Gold Medal All-Purpose Flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Progresso Plain Panko Crispy Bread Crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/4 lb chicken breast tenders
- Favorite dipping sauce, if desired
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also feels rewarding to make.
How to Make Fried Chicken Tenders
Creating your fried chicken tenders at home is a straightforward process that you can master with minimal fuss. To get started, follow these detailed steps:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with foil to facilitate easy cleanup and spray it with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Gather three wide, shallow bowls and arrange them on your work surface. In the first bowl, pour in the all-purpose flour. This step provides a dry coating for the chicken, helping the egg and breadcrumb mixture to adhere better.
In the second bowl, crack the large egg and add one tablespoon of water. Beat these two ingredients together until they are well combined. This will serve as your wet mixture to create a flavorful coating.
In the third bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will add delicious flavor and an incredible crunch to your tenders.
Now it’s time to coat your chicken tenders. Start by taking a piece of chicken and coating both sides in flour, ensuring that you shake off any excess. This step locks in moisture and prepares the surface for the egg dip.
Next, dip the flour-coated chicken into the egg mixture, covering it completely for a good wet layer.
Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the bread crumb and cheese mix. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
Once coated, place the chicken tenders on your prepared cookie sheet. Repeat the process with all your chicken pieces until they’re all ready to go.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember to turn the tenders once halfway through, after about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is no longer pink in the center, and the golden brown coating creates an inviting crunch.
When cooked, immediately transfer the golden tenders to a serving platter. Enjoy them hot, perhaps with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly baked fried chicken tenders that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
How to Serve Fried Chicken Tenders
Now that your chicken tenders are ready, how do you serve them for the best experience? Presentation matters, even for a casual dish like chicken tenders. Here are a few ideas to make your meal shine:
- Dipping Sauces: Set out a variety of dipping sauces. Popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce. Providing a selection encourages everyone to try different flavor combinations.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing your serving platter with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for an appealing touch. This small addition can elevate the presentation and add a hint of freshness.
- Sides: Pair your chicken tenders with sides that complement their flavor. Think along the lines of crispy fries, fresh coleslaw, or a simple green salad. These sides can enhance the overall experience of the meal.
- Placing on a Board: If you’re hosting a gathering, serve your tenders on a wooden board with the dipping sauces in cute bowls around it. This approach not only looks inviting but also creates a casual and fun dining atmosphere.
By serving your fried chicken tenders in a thoughtful manner, you’ll leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Expert Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken Tenders
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh chicken breast tenders. They are usually more tender and flavorful than frozen ones. If choosing to use frozen chicken, ensure it is completely thawed before preparing.
- Don’t Skip the Coating: Each of the three steps – flour, egg, and breadcrumb – plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect crunch. Make sure you coat each tender thoroughly for the best results.
- Test the Oven: Ovens can vary in temperature. Always keep an eye on your tenders while they bake and use a meat thermometer for an accurate check; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Double Coating (Optional): For extra crunchiness, consider double-dipping your chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs. Just repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for more layers of coating.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them retain moisture and ensures they’re juicy when you sink your teeth in.
How to Store Fried Chicken Tenders
If you happen to have any leftovers (though we doubt it!), storing chicken tenders properly is essential to maintain their taste and texture.
- Cooling: First, allow the chicken tenders to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming inside your storage container, which can make the coating soggy.
- Airtight Container: Place the cooled tenders in an airtight container. If you have more than one layer, separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking together.
- Refrigerate: Store the airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume your leftover chicken tenders within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in an oven or an air fryer at a low temperature to crisp them back up. Microwaving often makes them soggy, so we do not recommend that method.
Variations of Fried Chicken Tenders
While the classic fried chicken tenders are delightful as is, experimenting can give you exciting new flavors! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, spice up your flour mixture by adding cayenne pepper or paprika. This adds a nice kick that balances with the crunchy coating.
- Herbed Coating: Try adding dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning to your breadcrumb mixture. This infuses the tenders with aromatic flavors.
- Cheese Flavors: Instead of just Parmesan, experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Incorporate them into the breadcrumbs for a chewier texture and enhanced flavor.
- Sweet and Savory Option: Consider making a honey glaze to brush on your chicken tenders after baking. This adds a sweet touch that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free alternative, use tofu or cauliflower as your base. Proceed with the same breading process for delicious vegetarian-friendly tenders.
FAQ: Fried Chicken Tenders
What are the best dipping sauces for fried chicken tenders?
When it comes to fried chicken tenders, the options are endless! Popular choices include barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli. These flavors can elevate your chicken tenders and cater to different taste preferences.
Can I make fried chicken tenders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Just ensure they are properly cooked and cooled before storing. You can reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best results.
Are fried chicken tenders healthy?
While fried chicken tenders can be enjoyed as a delicious treat, they can be high in calories and fat due to the frying process. Baking them, as this recipe suggests, is a healthier alternative, allowing you to enjoy this comfort food without guilt.
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Fried Chicken Tenders Crispy, tender fried chicken tenders that make for an irresistible appetizer, snack, or main course, perfect for any occasion. Course: Appetizer, Main Course Cuisine: American Keyword: Baked Chicken Tenders, Comfort Food, Crispy Chicken, Fried Chicken Tenders, Homemade Chicken Tenders Prep Time: 10m Cook Time: 20m Total Time: 30m Servings: 4 servings For the Coating – 1/4 cup Gold Medal All-Purpose Flour For coating the chicken – 1 large egg For the wet mixture – 1 tablespoon water To mix with the egg – 1 cup Progresso Plain Panko Crispy Bread Crumbs For the crispy coating – 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese To add flavor to the coating Main Ingredient – 1 1/4 lb chicken breast tenders Fresh chicken is recommended – Favorite dipping sauce Optional, for serving Preparation 1) Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray. 2) Gather three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. 3) In the second bowl, beat the egg with water until well combined. 4) In the third bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Coating 1) Coat each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off the excess. 2) Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. 3) Coat the chicken in the bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Baking 1) Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared sheet pan. 2) Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. 3) Transfer cooked tenders to a serving platter and enjoy hot with dipping sauces. For added crunch, try double-coating the chicken. Let resting after baking helps retain juiciness. You can also use frozen chicken tenders if thawed completely. serving_size 1 calories 250 carbohydrates 30 protein 20 fat 10 saturated_fat 1 sodium 400 fiber 1 sugar 1
Fried Chicken Tenders
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Ingredients
For the Coating
- 1/4 cup Gold Medal All-Purpose Flour For coating the chicken
- 1 large egg For the wet mixture
- 1 tablespoon water To mix with the egg
- 1 cup Progresso Plain Panko Crispy Bread Crumbs For the crispy coating
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese To add flavor to the coating
Main Ingredient
- 1 1/4 lb chicken breast tenders Fresh chicken is recommended
- Favorite dipping sauce Optional, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray.
- Gather three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
- In the second bowl, beat the egg with water until well combined.
- In the third bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Coating
- Coat each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully covered.
- Coat the chicken in the bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Baking
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared sheet pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked tenders to a serving platter and enjoy hot with dipping sauces.