The Best Homemade Chicken Tenders Recipe

Unlock the secret to crispy, golden chicken tenders that will make you ditch store-bought forever—discover the perfect recipe now.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These crispy homemade chicken tenders are quick, easy, and perfect for satisfying your cravings. You’ll love them because they’re juicy on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside, making every bite irresistible. They’re simple to make with basic ingredients, so you don’t need to be a pro chef to whip them up. Plus, they’re way healthier than store-bought versions, letting you enjoy guilt-free snacking or a fun family dinner.

Recipe

crispy seasoned chicken tenders

Crispy homemade chicken tenders are a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. These tender strips of chicken are coated in a seasoned breading and fried to golden perfection, making them a delicious alternative to store-bought versions.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
  3. Place breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.
  4. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  5. Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F).
  7. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Notes:

For a healthier option, bake the tenders at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Equipment:

– Shallow bowls (3)

中心- Skillet or frying pan

– Paper towels

Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

Serves 4

Nutrition

Chicken tenders are a popular dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or main course. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of homemade chicken tenders:

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories320
Protein25g
Carbohydrates15g
Fat18g
Saturated Fat3g
Cholesterol65mg
Sodium450mg
Fiber1g
Sugars1g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade chicken tenders with simple side dishes, like crispy fries or a fresh green salad, to keep the meal balanced. You can’t go wrong with dipping sauces, either—honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch are always crowd-pleasers. Let me know what your favorite combo is—I’m always looking for new ideas!

Side Dish Ideas

When you’re serving up crispy homemade chicken tenders, you’ll want sides that complement their crunch without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing them with classic fries—they’re a no-brainer—or sweet potato wedges for a twist. A simple coleslaw adds freshness, while mac and cheese brings comfort. If I’m feeling fancy, roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of garlic balance the meal perfectly. Don’t forget buttery corn on the cob or a light garden salad for something crisp. These sides keep things easy but delicious, letting the tenders shine. Trust me, your plate will be empty in no time!

Perfect Dipping Sauces

Now that we’ve got the sides covered, let’s talk about the best part—dipping sauces! I love a classic honey mustard—just mix mayo, mustard, honey, and a squeeze of lemon. Ranch is always a winner, but try adding a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Barbecue sauce is great, but homemade beats store-bought every time. For something tangy, whip up a quick garlic aioli with mayo, garlic, and lemon juice. And don’t forget sweet chili sauce—it’s my secret weapon. Whatever you choose, these sauces will take your chicken tenders from good to unforgettable. Happy dipping!

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