Crispy Chicken Tenders and Dipping Sauce

why make this recipe

Crispy Chicken Tenders are a family favorite. They are easy to make and perfect for both kids and adults. With their crunchy coating and juicy center, these tenders are great for dinner, game day, or as a snack. You can also customize them with your favorite dipping sauces.

how to make Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast (cut into strips)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Directions:

1. Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat in the dry mixture.
4. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

how to serve Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Serve Crispy Chicken Tenders hot right out of the pan. They go well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha. Add some fresh veggies or fries on the side for a complete meal.

how to store Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

To store leftover chicken tenders, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in an oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness.

tips to make Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

• For extra crunch, double dip the tenders. After the first coating, dip them back into the buttermilk and then coat again with the dry mixture.
• Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. You can test it by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
• Feel free to tweak the seasoning to match your taste. Add more spices for a spicier kick or keep it simple for kids.

variation

Instead of frying, you can bake the chicken tenders for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the tenders on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them fully before marinating in buttermilk.

2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

3. How do I make the tenders spicy?
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry mixture for some heat. Adjust the amount to fit your taste.

4. Can I make these in advance?
You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time, coat them, and freeze them before frying. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.