Chicken tenders are a beloved comfort food known for their juicy interior, crispy coating, and irresistible flavor. Originating from the Southern United States, they’ve gained popularity worldwide due to their versatility and ease of preparation.
Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, chicken tenders can be customized with countless spices and dips. Their tender texture and savory crunch make them a family favorite across all ages. Let’s dive into how to make the perfect batch at home!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
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1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
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2 eggs, beaten
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Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
Substitutions:
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs
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Low-Carb: Replace flour with almond flour and breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds
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Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk with lemon juice for buttermilk substitute
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
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In a bowl, mix buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best flavor).
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Prepare the Breading Station:
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Bowl 1: Flour
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Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
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Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs (seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper)
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Bread the Chicken:
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Dredge each tender in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
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Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
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Fry or Bake:
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To Fry: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tenders for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
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To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place tenders on a greased baking rack or sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Drain & Serve:
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Place cooked tenders on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Avoid These Common Mistakes:
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Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying – it drops the oil temp.
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Skipping the marinade can lead to dry chicken.
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Using wet breadcrumbs or not pressing them in firmly may cause coating to fall off.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Double Dip for Extra Crunch: For a thicker crust, repeat the flour and egg step before adding breadcrumbs.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Cook chicken to an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
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Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray lightly with oil for best crispiness.
Variations and Customizations
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the marinade.
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Herbed: Mix Italian seasoning or dried herbs into the breadcrumb mixture.
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Asian-Inspired: Marinate in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger; coat with tempura batter and serve with sweet chili sauce.
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Vegetarian: Use tofu or thick-cut zucchini strips as a substitute for chicken.
Serving Suggestions
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Dips: Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or spicy aioli.
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Sides: Fries, coleslaw, mac & cheese, or a simple green salad.
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Presentation: Serve stacked on a platter with dips in ramekins, garnished with fresh parsley or microgreens.
Nutritional Information (Per 2-3 Tenders, Approx.)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Fat: 12g
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Sodium: 450mg
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Fiber: 1g
(Note: Values may vary depending on cooking method and portion size.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze chicken tenders?
Yes! After cooking, cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Q: How do I keep tenders crispy after cooking?
Place them on a wire rack instead of a plate to allow airflow and prevent sogginess.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep and bread the tenders ahead, then store them in the fridge (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
Closing Thoughts
Chicken tenders are more than just a kid’s meal—they’re a crispy, juicy, flavor-packed delight that you can elevate in so many ways. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or game-day snack, this recipe will deliver every time.
