The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Tenders

The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Tenders

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Preparation time:50 Mins

Cooking time:15 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups (160g) panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
• 3 cups (710ml) vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

• Pat chicken tenders dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• In the first shallow dish, place flour. In the second, beaten eggs. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to ensure the breading adheres.
• Place breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• Carefully add chicken tenders to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Remove chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. These crispy chicken tenders are best served immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:450

Fat:25g

Fiber:0g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:American

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper crispy chicken tenders , like the ones from your favourite takeaway? Honestly, ditch the delivery app because this chicken tender recipe is a game-changer.

It's got that unbeatable crunch that makes your heart sing!

Brief Overview

These homemade chicken tenders are inspired by classic American diners. They are surprisingly easy to make. It's ready in under an hour.

This serves about 4 people. They're a bit of alright, really.

Main Benefits

This chicken tender recipe is not only delicious but also relatively healthier than takeaway. Plus, it's absolutely perfect for a weekend treat or a casual get-together with mates.

What makes these tenders special? The perfect balance of crispy fried chicken on the outside and juicy chicken tenders on the inside!

Now, what do you need to make this magic happen?

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make these ultimate crispy chicken tenders. Think of this as your shopping list for pure, unadulterated fried chicken joy! Honestly, the right ingredients make all the difference for a truly amazing homemade chicken tenders experience.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Okay, so for these incredible tenders, here’s what you'll need. We’re going for best chicken tender recipe material here!

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Slice 'em into 1-inch thick strips. Make sure your chicken is nice and fresh. No one wants dodgy chicken!
• Seasoning the Chicken: 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) cayenne pepper (if you're feeling brave!). I sometimes add a touch of onion powder too.
• Flour Power: 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour. This helps the egg stick.
• Eggcellent Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten. Whisk 'em like you mean it!
• Breadcrumb Bliss: 2 cups (160g) panko breadcrumbs. This is key for crispy fried chicken ! The coarser the better, in my humble opinion.
• Parmesan Perk (optional): 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese. Gives a lovely savoury note.
• Herby Goodness: 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme and 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano. I love the flavour combo.
• Breadcrumb Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt, 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper. Seasoning is king!
• Frying Fuel: 3 cups (710ml) vegetable oil. You want a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like sunflower or canola.

Seasoning Notes

For that perfect takeaway style chicken tenders flavor, don't skimp on the herbs and spices! Garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and oregano are your best friends here.

If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper does the trick.

If you're missing thyme or oregano, don't stress. Italian seasoning is a great substitute. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a nice depth of flavor.

These juicy chicken tenders will sing.

Equipment Needed

Don't worry, you don't need a fancy kitchen for this.

• Three shallow dishes or bowls: For your breading station.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven: For frying.
• Kitchen thermometer: Absolutely essential for getting the oil temperature right.
• Wire rack: To drain the crispy chicken tenders after frying.

Honestly, the most important thing is the kitchen thermometer. If you don't have one, you're flying blind. You really want that oil bang on 350° F ( 175° C) .

Trust me on this one! This is crucial for a easy chicken tender recipe .

The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Tenders (Better Than Takeaway!)

Alright, let's get cracking on these crispy chicken tenders . We're aiming for something that even Delia Smith would be proud of! This chicken tender recipe will deliver that classic, satisfying crunch with juicy, flavorful chicken inside.

Think of it as your ultimate Friday night takeaway, but way better! Honestly, ditch the Deliveroo app. You'll be making the best chicken tender recipe you've ever had.

This easy chicken tender recipe is rated easy because it mostly involves breading and frying. The most important thing is managing the oil temperature, which we'll cover in the instructions.

Anyone who's made toast can handle this! Plus, homemade just tastes better, you know?

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

Time to get organized! Good prep is half the battle. We need our ingredients ready. This is all part of the " mise en place " – as my old Cordon Bleu chef used to call it.

First, slice 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch thick tenders. Season them with 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt, 1/2 teaspoon (2.

5ml) black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) paprika, and a pinch of cayenne (optional, for a kick!).

Then, set up your breading station. Flour, eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Chilling the chicken for 30 minutes is key for the breading to stick.

Step-by-Step to Juicy Chicken Tenders

Here’s how to get that takeaway style chicken tenders quality at home!

1. Dredge each chicken tender in 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour.
2. Dip in 2 lightly beaten eggs.
3. Coat thoroughly with 2 cups (160g) panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan (optional), 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme, 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper.
4. Chill breaded chicken tenders for 30 minutes.
5. Heat 3 cups (710ml) vegetable oil to 350° F ( 175° C) .
6. Fry for 2- 3 minutes per side , until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . Use a kitchen thermometer!
7. Drain on a wire rack.
8. Serve with your fave dipping sauces for chicken tenders like honey mustard.

Pro Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken Perfection

Want to take your panko chicken tenders to the next level? Here's how!

For extra crunch, double dip in the egg and breadcrumbs. Don't overcrowd the pan. Maintain the oil at 350° F ( 175° C) ! The common mistake is dropping the oil temp too low.

If you want to try some Chicken tender variations , go for Bang Bang style with chilli and mayo.

Enjoy!

Alright, let's talk recipe notes for the ultimate crispy chicken tenders ! You know, the kind that makes you wanna ditch the takeaway menu forever.

This isn't just any chicken tender recipe ; it's a game-changer!

Serving Up Some Ideas

Plating Like a Pro

Honestly, presentation matters. I'm no fancy chef, but a little effort goes a long way! Pile those homemade chicken tenders high on a plate.

Maybe add a sprig of parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Think American diner vibes.

The Perfect Partners

Okay, so what goes with crispy fried chicken ? Coleslaw is a classic. Don't forget the fries (or chips, as we say here!).

For dips? Honey mustard is my go-to, but BBQ sauce is always a winner. And a cold drink? A crisp lager or even a lemonade works wonders.

Storage Secrets

Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? (If you do, you're stronger than I am!). Pop 'em in the fridge. They'll be good for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they're in an airtight container.

Freezing for Later

You can freeze these! Lay them out on a baking sheet first, then once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag.

They will retain all the juicy chicken tenders. They'll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating 101

Honestly, reheating fried food is tricky. The best way? The oven. A quick blast in a preheated oven at 350° F ( 175° C) should do the trick.

Microwave? Only if you’re really in a rush. But let's be honest, you might have takeaway style chicken tenders , but they won't be as crispy.

Playing Around with Flavors

Dietary Tweaks

Going gluten-free? No problem! Just swap out the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions. Easy peasy.

Seasonal Swaps

Use fresh herbs from the garden! Thyme and oregano are fab, but rosemary works well too. You can always make this best chicken tender recipe uniquely yours!

Nutrition Lowdown

The Basics

Alright, so these aren't exactly health food. But everything in moderation, right? You're looking at roughly 450 calories per serving.

Good Stuff

Hey, chicken is a good source of protein! Plus, you know exactly what's going into these, which is more than you can say for most takeaways.

So there you have it! All the extra bits and bobs to make these panko chicken tenders your own. Now go on, get cooking that easy chicken tender recipe ! You got this! What are you waiting for?! Grab those dipping sauces for chicken tenders !