Chicken tenders are a family favorite for their versatility and ease of preparation. This recipe focuses on achieving perfectly crispy, juicy chicken tenders with minimal fuss. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this guide will help you master the art of making easy breaded chicken tenders.
What Makes These Chicken Tenders "Easy"?
These chicken tenders are designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor or texture. We've streamlined the breading process, using readily available ingredients and a quick, efficient technique. No complicated marinades or multiple breading stages are required – just a few simple steps to incredibly delicious results.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious depth of flavor)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
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Create the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In the second, place the beaten egg. In the third, put the breadcrumbs.
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Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a breadcrumb dropped in should sizzle immediately), carefully place the chicken tenders in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
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Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
How can I make extra crispy chicken tenders?
Using panko breadcrumbs is key to achieving extra crispiness. Also, ensure your chicken is completely dry before breading, and don't overcrowd the pan when frying. Allowing the oil to reach the correct temperature before adding the chicken is also essential.
What are the best dipping sauces for chicken tenders?
Honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and sweet chili sauce are all popular choices. You can also get creative with homemade sauces!
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The result will be less crispy than frying, but still delicious.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be opaque and no longer pink inside.
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them. This will save you time on busy weeknights. However, frying them fresh is always best for optimal crispiness.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked safely.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your liking. Add some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy and easy breaded chicken tenders! They're sure to be a hit with the whole family.
