Ah, chicken tenders 🍗✨—crispy, golden, and perfect for dipping! Here’s a versatile recipe for crispy homemade chicken tenders that works baked or fried.
Chicken Tenders
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1–2 cups breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
1. Prep coating
- In one bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs with milk.
- In a third bowl, place breadcrumbs.
2. Coat chicken
- Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip in egg mixture.
- Coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
3. Cook
Frying (classic crispy):
- Heat ÂĽ inch oil in skillet over medium heat.
- Fry chicken tenders 3–4 minutes per side until golden and internal temp is 165°F (74°C).
- Drain on paper towels.
Baking (healthier):
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place tenders on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with oil.
- Bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Serving ideas
- Dipping sauces: honey mustard, BBQ, ranch, buffalo sauce
- Serve with fries, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad
- Make a tender sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and mayo
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs or double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to flour or breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan crust: Mix ÂĽ cup grated Parmesan with breadcrumbs.
- Air fryer version: 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
If you want, I can give you a super-easy 5-ingredient crispy chicken tenders recipe that’s done in under 25 minutes.
Do you want me to do that?
