Chicken Tenders Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Tenders Recipe: Who doesn’t love crispy, juicy chicken tenders? They’re the ultimate comfort food and a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a satisfying meal, chicken tenders fit the bill.

This guide will walk you through a foolproof recipe, offering multiple cooking methods, tips, and tricks for mouthwatering results every time.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need a mix of simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s the list:

• Chicken Tenders:
  • 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips.
• Marinade Ingredients:
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt as an alternative).
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika.
  • Salt and pepper to taste.
• Coating Ingredients:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika.
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice).
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano.
  • 2 eggs (beaten).
• Cooking Oil: For frying, vegetable or canola oil works best.

Optional Add-ons:

• Grated Parmesan for the coating.
• Lemon zest for a zesty kick.

Equipment Required

Here’s a quick list of tools you’ll need for the recipe:

• Mixing bowls for the marinade and coating.
• Whisk for beating eggs and mixing seasonings.
• Tongs for handling chicken tenders.
• Baking tray (if baking or air-frying).
• Non-stick skillet or deep fryer (if frying).
• Paper towels for draining excess oil.

Preparation Tips

The secret to great chicken tenders lies in the preparation. Follow these tips for best results:

1. Trim the Chicken: Remove any excess fat or sinew from the tenders. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
2. Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible. This step locks in flavor and ensures juicy meat.
3. Set Up a Coating Station: Arrange your coating ingredients in a neat order: flour mix, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. This assembly line keeps the process clean and efficient.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by cleaning and patting dry the chicken tenders. If using chicken breasts, cut them into 1-inch-wide strips for even cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Making the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Pro Tip: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.

Step 3: Preparing the Coating

Mix the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. In another dish, beat the eggs. Set up your coating station near the cooking area.

Step 4: Frying Chicken Tenders

1. Heat 2 inches of oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove chicken tenders from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
3. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Carefully place the tenders in the hot oil and fry for 4–5 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature.

Step 5: Baking Chicken Tenders

For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
3. Follow the same coating process and place tenders on the tray.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Step 6: Air-Frying Chicken Tenders

Air-frying is a fantastic way to achieve crispy tenders with less oil:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Tenders

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Add a pinch of baking powder to the flour mixture for a lighter coating.
• Always preheat your oil or oven for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken tenders are best enjoyed hot and crispy. Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or sriracha mayo. For a complete meal, serve with:

• French fries or potato wedges.
• A fresh green salad.
• Steamed vegetables or coleslaw.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Use an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes for crispy results.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Tenders

Best Storage Practices

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Without Losing Crispiness

• Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Reheat tenders for about 10 minutes in the oven or 5-7 minutes in the air fryer.
• Avoid microwaving, as it makes the breading soggy.

Healthier Alternatives for Chicken Tenders

Gluten-Free Options

Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Almond flour and crushed rice crackers make excellent substitutes.

Low-Oil and Low-Sodium Variations

• Opt for baking or air frying instead of deep frying.
• Season with natural herbs and spices rather than excess salt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan

When frying, avoid adding too many chicken pieces at once. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking and soggy tenders.

Skipping the Marinade

Skipping the marinade step can result in bland and dry chicken tenders. Take the extra time to marinate for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs about Chicken Tenders Recipe

1. What are chicken tenders made of?

Chicken tenders are typically made from the tenderloin, a small, lean strip of meat located under the chicken breast. They are known for their soft, juicy texture and are often coated in breadcrumbs or batter before frying or baking.

2. How do you make chicken tenders crispy?

For extra crispy chicken tenders, coat them in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for achieving a crunchier texture. Ensure the tenders are fully coated and fry them in hot oil or bake at a high temperature.

3. Can chicken tenders be baked instead of fried?

Yes! Chicken tenders can be baked for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.

4. What dipping sauces go best with chicken tenders?

Chicken tenders pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, and sweet chili sauce.

5. How do you store leftover chicken tenders?

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

6. Can chicken tenders be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs as substitutes. You can also try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for an alternative coating.

7. What is the best oil for frying chicken tenders?

Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are excellent choices for frying chicken tenders due to their high smoke points.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve mastered a simple yet delicious chicken tenders recipe. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these tenders are sure to be a hit with everyone. Give this recipe a try and make it your own by experimenting with different spices and coatings. Enjoy!