Go Back
Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders

Crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders make for a perfect snack or meal that both kids and adults love. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, these tenders are juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 meat mallet or rolling pin
  • 3 shallow dishes or plates
  • 1 frying pan or deep fryer
  • 1 cooking thermometer (optional)
  • 1 paper towels
  • 1 tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken breast tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Preferably panko for extra crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • If the chicken tenders have a thick part, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten them slightly for even cooking.
  • In three shallow dishes, place the flour in the first, whisk the eggs in the second, and mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third.
  • Dip each chicken tender into the flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  • In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
  • Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding. Fry for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  • Use tongs to remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  • Serve the chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or ketchup.
  • For a healthier version, consider baking the chicken tenders at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Notes

For a healthier version, consider baking the chicken tenders at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
You can add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in an oven or air fryer for best results.