Homemade Chicken Tenders

Introduction

Homemade Chicken Tenders are your ticket to enjoying the crispy, juicy goodness of a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen! These golden-brown tenders have the perfect crunch on the outside while staying incredibly tender and flavorful on the inside. Whether fried or baked, they’re a fantastic alternative to fast food—made with simple, wholesome ingredients and packed with homemade flavor.

I still remember the first time I made these for a family game night. The moment I set the platter down, they disappeared in minutes! The best part? You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste—go classic with garlic and paprika, add a spicy kick with cayenne, or give them an herby twist with Italian seasoning. And let’s not forget the dipping sauces! Whether you’re a fan of classic honey mustard, creamy ranch, tangy barbecue, or a bold buffalo sauce, these tenders pair perfectly with just about anything.

Making them is easier than you think! With just a few basic ingredients—chicken, eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs—you can create a batch of crispy, golden perfection in no time. Serve them up as a main dish with fries and coleslaw, chop them into a salad, or even meal prep them for the week. No matter how you enjoy them, these homemade chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Game day snacks
• Meal prepping
• Kids’ lunches
• Quick and easy homemade meals

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken Tenders

Here’s why these Homemade Chicken Tenders will be a go-to in your kitchen:

• Crispy and Crunchy: The breading is perfectly crispy on the outside while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.
• Healthier than Fast Food: No unnecessary additives or preservatives—just real ingredients.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust seasonings and coatings to match your preferences.
• Fried or Baked Options: You can make these tenders extra crispy by frying or go for a lighter version by baking.
• Kid-Friendly: Loved by picky eaters and easy to pair with different dipping sauces.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook in batches and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Homemade Chicken Tenders:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon water or milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying, if using)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, cut into even strips for uniform cooking.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a crunchier texture, while traditional breadcrumbs give a more classic coating.
• Egg Wash: Helps the breading stick for a crispy finish.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add depth of flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: A delicious addition for extra savory taste and crispy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Homemade Chicken Tenders:

Prepare the Breading Station:

1. Set Up Breading Bowls: In three separate shallow bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with 1 tablespoon of water or milk.
   • Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
   • Dip into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides evenly.

Cooking Options:

Frying Method:

3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
4. Carefully place chicken tenders in the hot oil, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Baking Method:

3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Place breaded chicken tenders on the sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Method:

3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Tenders

Homemade Chicken Tenders are best served fresh and crispy. Here are some great ways to enjoy them:

• Classic Style – Serve with ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Buffalo Style – Toss in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing.
• Chicken Tender Sliders – Place tenders in mini buns with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
• Southern Style – Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and gravy.
• Chicken & Waffles – Pair with waffles and drizzle with maple syrup or honey butter.
• Chicken Tender Salad – Slice and serve over a fresh garden or Caesar salad.
• Tacos – Chop and serve in soft tortillas with slaw, avocado, and chipotle mayo.
• Wraps – Roll in a tortilla with lettuce, cheese, and ranch dressing.
• Loaded Fries – Top crispy fries with chopped tenders, cheese, and ranch.
• Asian-Inspired – Toss in teriyaki or sweet chili sauce and serve with rice.

Additional Tips for Homemade Chicken Tenders

• Use Buttermilk for Tenderness – Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to make it extra juicy and tender.
• Season Every Layer – Add seasoning to the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to build layers of flavor.
• Double Dredging for Extra Crunch – For a crispier crust, dip the chicken in flour, then egg, then flour again before frying.
• Let Them Rest Before Frying – After breading, let the tenders sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better.
• Use a Wire Rack Instead of Paper Towels – Drain cooked tenders on a wire rack to keep them crispy instead of soggy.
• Opt for Panko Bread Crumbs – Panko creates a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
• Check Oil Temperature – Keep the oil at 350-375°F (175-190°C) for perfect crispiness without being greasy.
• Bake for a Healthier Option – Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness.
• Air Fry for Less Oil – Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Try Different Dips – Experiment with sauces like honey mustard, ranch, sriracha mayo, or garlic parmesan for extra flavor!

Recipe Variations for Homemade Chicken Tenders

Try these different ways to switch up your Homemade Chicken Tenders:

• Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a hot and tangy twist.
• Parmesan Herb Chicken Tenders: Increase Parmesan cheese and add fresh herbs for an Italian-style tender.
• Coconut Chicken Tenders: Use shredded coconut in place of some breadcrumbs for a tropical flavor.
• BBQ Chicken Tenders: Mix BBQ sauce into the egg wash and serve with extra sauce.
• Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders: Add honey and Dijon mustard to the egg wash for a sweet-savory balance.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly option.
• Cheesy Chicken Tenders: Stuff cheese inside each tender before breading for a gooey center.
• Sesame Chicken Tenders: Add sesame seeds and soy sauce flavors for an Asian-inspired twist.
• Oven-Baked Buttermilk Tenders: Marinate in buttermilk overnight for extra tenderness before baking.
• Lemon Herb Chicken Tenders: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs to the breading for a fresh, zesty taste.

Freezing and Storage for Homemade Chicken Tenders

• Freezing: Bread the tenders and freeze uncooked on a tray. Once firm, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
• Storage: Store cooked tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.

Special Equipment for Homemade Chicken Tenders

Here are some tools to make preparation easier:

• Sharp Knife: For even chicken strips.
• Shallow Bowls: For easy breading.
• Tongs: For flipping tenders safely.
• Skillet or Deep Fryer: If frying.
• Baking Sheet: If baking.
• Air Fryer: For a healthier, crispy alternative.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Frequently Asked Questions for Homemade Chicken Tenders

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs will be juicier but may take slightly longer to cook.
2. Can I bake instead of fry?
   Yes, follow the baking method for a healthier version.
3. How do I keep tenders crispy?
   Serve immediately or reheat in an oven/air fryer to restore crispiness.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! Freeze breaded tenders and cook as needed.
5. What oil is best for frying?
   Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for best results.

Print

Conclusion

Crispy Homemade Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favorite right from your own kitchen. With their crunchy, golden coating and tender, juicy interior, these flavorful tenders are impossible to resist. Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry them, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy them on their own, pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, or turn them into a delicious sandwich or wrap. However you serve them, these homemade chicken tenders will bring comfort and satisfaction to every bite.

I’d love to see how your Crispy Homemade Chicken Tenders turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!