Chicken Tenders

Why This Recipe Works

Perfect Balance of Flavor and Texture

When it comes to Chicken Tenders, the perfect balance of flavor and texture is what makes them truly irresistible. The tender juiciness of marinated chicken combined with a crispy, golden-brown coating creates a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds dancing. The magic lies in the seasoning; each bite bursts with flavor while the tender meat ensures a satisfying chew. This recipe is designed to highlight those qualities, making every piece a delight to enjoy.

Simple Ingredients for Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Chicken Tenders recipe is the simplicity of the ingredients. You don’t need to hunt for exotic spices or spend hours in the kitchen. The core ingredients—chicken breasts, buttermilk, flour, and a few spices—are pantry staples that most home cooks already have on hand. This accessibility makes it not only easy to prepare but also a go-to meal for busy weeknights. You’ll find yourself whipping these up in no time, with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.

Quick Cooking Time for Busy Weeknights

In our fast-paced world, time is a luxury that many of us can’t afford. This chicken tenders recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours cooking. The marinating process takes just a little bit of planning ahead, but the actual cooking time is quick. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a hot, crispy plate of chicken tenders ready to serve. It’s not just about speed, though; it’s about delivering a meal that everyone will love, making this a fantastic choice for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tenders

Kid-Friendly and Fun to Eat

Let’s face it: Chicken Tenders are a universal favorite, especially among kids. Their fun shape and crispy coating make them an appealing option for little ones, and they pair perfectly with various dipping sauces. Whether your children prefer classic ketchup or something a bit more adventurous, Chicken Tenders are the perfect canvas for fun flavors. Plus, they’re easy to handle, making them ideal for little hands.

Versatile for Various Dishes

One of the best things about this chicken tenders recipe is its versatility. You can serve them plain, or incorporate them into a variety of dishes. Think chicken tender wraps, salads, or even on top of a bed of rice. They’re also fantastic as an entertaining platter, served alongside a selection of dips and sides for a party. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen while keeping mealtime exciting.

Can Be Made in Bulk and Frozen

Meal prep enthusiasts will love that this chicken tenders recipe can easily be made in bulk. If you find yourself with extra chicken tenders, simply cool them, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months, making weeknight dinners even easier. On those days when cooking feels like a chore, you can pull out a batch of chicken tenders, reheat them, and have a delicious meal ready in minutes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

To create the perfect Chicken Tenders, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

These ingredients work harmoniously to create chicken tenders that are not only flavorful but also irresistibly crispy.

For Dipping Sauce (optional)

A good dipping sauce can elevate your chicken tenders to another level. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for a dipping sauce that you can whip up in minutes:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

This sweet and tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the savory chicken tenders, making each bite even more delightful.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken strips in buttermilk. This step is crucial as it helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with moisture. Simply place the chicken strips in a bowl, pour the buttermilk over them, and ensure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight if you plan ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to set up your breading station. On one plate, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning. On a separate plate or shallow dish, you can set up your chicken strips once they are done marinating.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders

Once your chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge. Take each piece of chicken and allow excess buttermilk to drip off before dredging it in the flour mixture. Ensure that each strip is fully coated; this is what will give your chicken that delicious crunchy exterior. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a clean plate and repeat the process until all the chicken is coated.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Now comes the fun part—frying! In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop in a small pinch of flour; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go. Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve with Dipping Sauce

Once fried to perfection, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with the homemade dipping sauce on the side. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, these chicken tenders are bound to be a hit!

Tips for Success

Using Fresh Ingredients for Best Flavor

To achieve the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh ingredients. Fresh chicken breasts make a significant difference in taste and juiciness. Additionally, using freshly ground spices can enhance the flavor profile of your chicken tenders. When possible, try to use organic or free-range chicken for a more robust taste.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken tenders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, aim for the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave, as this will help retain that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Alternative Cooking Methods (Baking/Air Frying)

For those looking to cut down on oil, consider baking or air frying your chicken tenders. If baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the breaded chicken tenders on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Both methods yield deliciously crispy chicken tenders with less oil.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! If you only have frozen chicken breasts on hand, you can still make this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. It’s best to do this overnight in the refrigerator, but if you’re short on time, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk (whole or 2%) with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and texture that the recipe calls for.

How do I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?

For extra crispy chicken tenders, consider double breading them. After the initial coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then dredge it again in the flour mixture. This extra layer of coating will create a crunchier texture when fried. Additionally, using cornstarch in the breading mix can enhance the crispiness.

Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free chicken tenders, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the breadcrumbs if you’re using any, are gluten-free as well.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tenders?

Chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Consider classic options like French fries, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw. For a healthier twist, you could serve them with a side salad or steamed vegetables. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with a plate of mac and cheese or homemade potato wedges.

By following this detailed guide, you’re well on your way to mastering Chicken Tenders that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

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Chicken Tenders

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Enjoy crispy, juicy chicken tenders that are easy to make and perfect for dipping. A family favorite that’s versatile and can be frozen for later use.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for dipping sauce)
• 2 tbsp honey (for dipping sauce)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for dipping sauce)

Instructions

• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken – Begin by marinating the chicken strips in buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
• Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station – Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper on one plate.
• Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders – Remove marinated chicken, dredge in flour mixture, and coat thoroughly.
• Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders – Heat oil in a skillet and fry chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Step 5: Serve with Dipping Sauce – Transfer to paper towels and serve hot with dipping sauce.

Notes

Using fresh ingredients enhances flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
For a healthier option, consider baking or air frying.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 1 hour (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg