Description
Crispy Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food—juicy on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside. These homemade tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and fried to crispy perfection. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, game night, or a quick snack, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a hit. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible meal that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken Tenders: Naturally tender and juicy, but you can also cut boneless chicken breasts into strips.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These create an extra crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Spices: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne adds flavor and a hint of spice.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional but adds an extra crunch and savory depth to the coating.
- Egg and Milk Mixture: Helps the coating stick to the chicken for an even, crispy crust.
Instructions
Prepare the Breading Station:
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Set Up Three Bowls:
- In the first bowl, place the flour.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together.
- In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
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Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the Chicken Tenders:
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Frying Method:
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Baking Method:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
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Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g