Chicken tenders are a classic comfort food, loved by kids and adults alike. This recipe elevates the simple chicken tender to a new level of crispy, juicy deliciousness, thanks to the magic of panko breadcrumbs. Get ready for the perfect balance of tender inside and incredibly crunchy outside!
What Makes Panko Breadcrumbs Special?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about why panko breadcrumbs are the star of this show. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs with a unique, airy texture. This creates an extra-crispy coating that's lighter and less dense than those made with traditional breadcrumbs. The larger, flakier crumbs also help create a superior crunch.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor!)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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For the Breadcrumbs:
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (again, smoked is fantastic)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
Instructions: Step-by-Step to Crispy Perfection
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut your chicken breasts into tender-sized strips. In a bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the chicken tenders in this seasoning mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated.
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Set up your breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, place the beaten egg mixed with the milk. In the third, place the panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tender completely in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
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Cook the Chicken: You have several options for cooking:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Pan-frying: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve: Serve your crispy, juicy chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or sriracha mayo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
While you can, the results won't be quite the same. Panko's unique texture creates a much crispier, lighter coating. Regular breadcrumbs will produce a more dense and less crispy result.
How do I ensure my chicken tenders are cooked through?
Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Don't rely solely on visual cues like color, as this can be misleading.
What are some good dipping sauces for chicken tenders?
The possibilities are endless! Popular choices include honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, and even a simple marinara sauce. Experiment and find your favorites!
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to cook them fresh for the optimal texture and crispiness.
How can I prevent the chicken from becoming greasy?
Avoid overcrowding the pan when pan-frying. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, and don't overcrowd the pan when baking. Properly draining excess oil after frying will also help.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade chicken tenders! This recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preferences for a truly customized experience.
