Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

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Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Introduction

Chicken tenders are a classic comfort food loved by kids and adults alike. These crispy, golden-brown tenders have a juicy interior and a crunchy coating, making them irresistible. Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or main meals, these homemade chicken tenders are far superior to fast food versions and easy to make at home.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Chicken tenders, also called chicken strips or fingers, originated in the United States and became a fast-food favorite. They are popular in American diners, sports bars, and home kitchens, often served with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, and barbecue sauce.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Breading:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Egg Wash:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk

For the Crispy Coating:

  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For Frying:

  • 2 cups vegetable oil (or canola oil)

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Additions

  • Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the flour mix.
  • Herb Flavor: Mix in Italian seasoning into the breadcrumb coating.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Baked Version: Use oven baking instead of frying for a healthier option.

Tips for Success

  1. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better adhesion.
  2. Use buttermilk instead of milk for extra tenderness.
  3. Double-dip for extra crunch—flour, egg, breadcrumbs, repeat.
  4. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
  5. Let the cooked tenders rest on a wire rack to stay crispy.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

  1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
  3. In another dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

  1. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  2. Dip into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
  3. Coat with the panko mixture, pressing firmly for extra crunch.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet.
  2. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
  2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with the dipping sauce.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley (optional).

Description

These crispy chicken tenders are perfectly golden brown, juicy, and packed with flavor. The light, crunchy panko coating gives them a satisfying texture, while the sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce adds a delicious contrast.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 540mg

Conclusion

Homemade crispy chicken tenders are easy to make, full of flavor, and better than restaurant versions. Whether fried or baked, they’re a versatile dish that pairs well with many dipping sauces.

Recommendation

  • Serve with French fries, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
  • Try other sauces like ranch, BBQ, or buffalo sauce.
  • For meal prep, store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in an air fryer for crispiness.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

  • Air-fry or bake for a lower-fat alternative.
  • Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
  • Swap Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dipping sauce for a healthier option.

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