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Crispy Chicken Tenders

These Crispy Chicken Tenders are golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked or fried to perfection. A family-friendly favorite served with your choice of dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • Cooking oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken tenders, buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  3. Remove chicken from marinade. Dredge each piece in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. To fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  5. To bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place tenders on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Spice up the marinade with cayenne pepper for a kick.
  • These tenders freeze well after baking—just reheat in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, fried chicken, baked chicken strips, kid-friendly dinner, homemade chicken fingers