Fried Chicken Tenders are a classic and beloved fried food, known for their crispy and crunchy texture. Typically made using chicken tenders, basic seasonings, a flavorful breading mixture, and herbs, these homemade chicken tenders are a standout among fried chicken dishes.
Whether you're hosting a party for kids, enjoying a family dinner, or gathering with friends, these delectable tenders are a crowd-pleaser. They pair exceptionally well with a variety of dips adding an extra layer of flavor and can be complemented by simple salads for a well-rounded lunch or dinner.
The recipe provided offers a step-by-step guide on how to make these fried chicken tenders, ensuring a straightforward cooking process. For a clear visual demonstration, a detailed video of the recipe has also been shared, making it easier to follow along and achieve excellent results.
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What are Fried Chicken Tenders?
Fried Chicken Tenders is a crispy and crunchy golden fried dish. Made with basic pantry staples, these chicken tenders offer a satisfying texture that is both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The key ingredients include chicken tenders, Panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, hot sauce, yellow mustard, and a blend of seasonings. Serve them as a delightful appetizer, finger food for gatherings, or as a main course alongside your favorite side dishes and dipping sauces or party dips.
What sets these Fried Chicken Tenders apart is the special breading that creates a perfectly crunchy exterior. The combination of Panko breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour forms a light and airy coating that crisps up beautifully when fried. The benefits of making these tenders at home are numerous. You have full control over the ingredients and can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Fried Chicken Tenders are one of the crowd-pleasing fried chicken dishes suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a party, planning a family dinner, or simply enjoying a casual meal, these tenders are sure to be a hit. With their golden appearance, juicy interior, and addictive crunch, these Fried Chicken Tenders are guaranteed to satisfy everyone's cravings.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The ingredients required for making these Fried Chicken Tenders are common pantry staples readily available in most grocery stores. So let's see what are they below.
- Chicken Tenders or Chicken Breast Strips: These cuts of chicken provide a tender and juicy texture, making them ideal for frying. Chicken tenders are conveniently pre-cut, while chicken breast sliced into strips can be a suitable alternative
- Panko Bread Crumbs: They are larger and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, creating a crunchy coating that enhances the texture of the chicken tenders
- All-Purpose Flour: The flour acts as a binding agent and helps the breading adhere to the chicken, ensuring a crispy and even coating
- Beaten Egg: The beaten egg serves as a binding agent for the breading, helping it adhere to the chicken. It also adds moisture and contributes to the overall texture
- Hot Sauce: Adding the hot sauce of your choice gives the chicken tenders a spicy kick
- Yellow Mustard: Provides a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that adds depth to the overall taste of the chicken tenders
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper): These seasonings enhance the savory profile of the dish. Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor, onion powder provides a hint of sweetness, and black pepper adds a touch of heat and earthiness
- Dried Parsley: It contributes a mild herbal note to chicken tenders. However, feel free to substitute it with other dried herbs of your choice
- Oil for Frying: Any neutral cooking oil can be used for frying chicken tenders. Examples include vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils have a high smoke point, making them suitable for deep frying while imparting minimal flavor to the dish
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Fried Chicken Tenders at Home?
The recipe I have shared here features Fried Chicken Tenders, renowned for their enticing golden exterior and succulent, tender interior. With a perfectly seasoned coating, they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below
Marinate Chicken Tenders
- Combine the seasonings: To marinate the chicken tenders, begin by combining garlic powder, onion powder, freshly ground black pepper, salt, and dried parsley in a bowl. Mix these ingredients together. This mixture will add flavor to the chicken tenders
- Make the marinade: Next, add beaten eggs, hot sauce, yellow mustard, and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the bowl. Stir everything thoroughly to create a smooth marinade. The eggs will help bind the ingredients together, while the hot sauce and mustard will add a tangy and spicy kick. The all-purpose flour will assist in coating the chicken tenders evenly
- Add the tenders: Now it's time to add the chicken tenders to the marinade. Make sure each tender is fully coated in the mixture
- Rest: For best results, close the bowl with a lid and allow the chicken tenders to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This will give the flavors a chance to penetrate the meat and make it more tender and flavorful
Bread Chicken Tenders
- Combine: Moving on to breading the chicken tenders, prepare a shallow tray for the breading mixture. In the tray, combine breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, and the seasonings mentioned in the ingredient list. Thoroughly mix these dry ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors
- Coat the chicken: Take the marinated chicken tenders and coat them in the breading mixture. Press the mixture onto the chicken lightly to ensure it adheres well. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders, making sure each one is evenly coated with the breadcrumb mixture. This breading will create a crispy and flavorful outer layer when fried
Fry the Chicken Tenders
- Heat the oil: Now it's time to fry the chicken tenders. Heat enough oil in a frying pan to fully submerge the chicken tenders. The ideal temperature for frying is between 365 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (185 to 190 degrees Celsius). To test if the oil is hot enough, you can drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and turns brown quickly, the oil is ready for frying
- Add: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan
- Fry: Fry them for approximately 5 to 7 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown. Then, flip them over and fry them for an additional 5 to 7 minutes on the other side
- Frying time: The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken tenders. Ensure they are fully cooked and have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) for food safety.
- Remove: Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. The fried chicken tenders will be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside
Tips
- Marinating Time: Allow the chicken tenders to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. However, if you have more time, marinating for a longer period, such as a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator, can result in even more flavorful chicken tenders
- Proper Coating: When coating the chicken tenders with the breading mixture, make sure to press the mixture onto the meat lightly. This helps the breading adhere well and creates a crispy outer layer when fried
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature between 365 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (185 to 190 degrees Celsius) while frying. If the oil is too hot, the chicken tenders may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. If the oil is not hot enough, the tenders can become greasy and absorb more oil
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken tenders in batches, ensuring that you don't overcrowd the frying pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking. It's best to leave some space between each tender to allow for even browning
- Drain Excess Oil: Once the chicken tenders are fried, place them on a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil. This step helps remove any excess grease and keeps the tenders crispy
- Check for Doneness: To ensure that the chicken tenders are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) for safe consumption. Alternatively, you can cut into one of the tenders to make sure it is cooked through and no longer pink
Storage Suggestions
To store Fried Chicken Tenders, allow them to cool completely at room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or resealable bag. Refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days, separating each layer with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled tenders in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen tenders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Always use your judgment and discard any leftovers that have an off odor, flavor, or texture.
Serving Suggestions
Fried Chicken Tenders taste great with a variety of delicious accompaniments. Here are some popular options:
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a range of dipping sauces to complement the flavor of the chicken tenders. Honey mustard, aioli, tartar sauce, sweet and sour sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, BBQ sauce, mango chutney, ranch dressing, or a tangy buffalo sauce are all great choices
- Side Salads: Fresh, crisp salads make a refreshing and light addition to fried chicken tenders. Consider serving coleslaw, cucumber salad, or a garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette
- French Fries or Potato Wedges: Serve crispy French fries or seasoned potato wedges alongside the chicken tenders for a classic pairing. They add a satisfying crunch and make for a hearty meal
- Vegetable Medley: Balance the meal with a colorful mix of roasted vegetables. Green beans, carrots, broccoli, or grilled corn can add a nutritious and flavorful touch
- Pasta Dishes: For a comforting and indulgent side, serve creamy alfredo pasta or garlic parmesan pasta. The rich and cheesy pasta pairs well with the crispy chicken tenders
Related Recipes
You could also find similar fried chicken recipes below and more at chicken recipes.
- Fried Chicken
- Fried Chicken Wings
- Oven Fried Chicken
- Oven Fried Chicken Tenders
- Korean Fried Chicken
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Chicken Nuggets
- Popcorn Chicken
- Garlic Parmesan Wings
Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Fried Chicken Tenders recipe below that I hope will help you to make a crispy dish at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
📖 Recipe
Fried Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For Marination
- 1¾ lb Chicken Tenders, 10-12 strips
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- ¾ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- 1½ tsp Salt, or adjust to taste
- ¾ tsp Dried Parsley
- 2 Beaten Eggs
- 3 tbsp Sriracha Sauce, or any hot sauce of your choice
- 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 3 tbsp All Purpose Flour
For Breading
- 1½ cup Panko Breadcrumb
- 1 cup All Purpose Flour
- ¾ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Salt, or to taste
- ½ cup Oil, for frying
Instructions
To Marinate
- In a bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried parsley. Mix the ingredients thoroughly
- Next, add beaten eggs, hot sauce, yellow mustard, and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Mix everything together. This mixture will serve as the marinade for the chicken tenders
- Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Close the bowl with a lid and let the chicken tenders marinate for at least 15 minutes
For Breading the Chicken Tenders
- In a shallow tray, combine breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, and the seasonings listed in the ingredient list. Mix the ingredients well
- Coat the marinated chicken tenders in the breading mixture, making sure to press the mixture onto the chicken lightly. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders. The breaded chicken tenders are now ready to be fried
To Fry the Chicken Tenders
- In a frying pan, pour enough oil to fry the chicken tenders. Allow the oil to reach a temperature between 365 to 375℉ (185 to 190 ℃). Alternatively, you can test the oil by adding a small piece of bread. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready for frying. Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the oil, ensuring not overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 5 to 7 minutes
- Flip the chicken tenders and fry them for another 5 to 7 minutes or until they are fully cooked and have turned golden in color
- Remove the fried chicken tenders from the oil and they are now ready to be enjoyed
To Serve
- Serve these crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with dipping sauces such as honey mustard sauce, garlic aioli, tartar sauce, chili sauce, or mango chutney. You can also pair them with simple salads like coleslaw or cucumber salad for a satisfying meal
Video
Notes
- Marinating Time: Allow the chicken tenders to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. However, if you have more time, marinating for a longer period, such as a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator, can result in even more flavorful chicken tenders
- Proper Coating: When coating the chicken tenders with the breading mixture, make sure to press the mixture onto the meat lightly. This helps the breading adhere well and creates a crispy outer layer when fried
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature between 365 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (185 to 190 degrees Celsius) while frying. If the oil is too hot, the chicken tenders may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. If the oil is not hot enough, the tenders can become greasy and absorb more oil
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken tenders in batches, ensuring that you don't overcrowd the frying pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking. It's best to leave some space between each tender to allow for even browning
- Drain Excess Oil: Once the chicken tenders are fried, place them on a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil. This step helps remove any excess grease and keeps the tenders crispy
- Check for Doneness: To ensure that the chicken tenders are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) for safe consumption. Alternatively, you can cut into one of the tenders to make sure it is cooked through and no longer pink
Nutrition
FAQ
As an alternative to chicken tenders, you can use chicken breast sliced into strips for making fried chicken tenders. Chicken breast is lean, tender, and widely available, making it a popular choice for this dish.
The cooking time for frying chicken tenders can vary depending on the thickness of the meat and the temperature of the oil. Generally, chicken tenders should be fried for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. It is essential to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. To achieve a golden-brown and crispy exterior, flip the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking process
The best seasoning for fried chicken tenders can vary based on personal preference, but some popular options include a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and yellow mustard. This blend of seasonings provides a well-rounded and flavorful profile for chicken tenders. However, feel free to experiment and customize the seasonings to suit your taste.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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