These homemade crispy chicken tenders are golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked to perfection, they’re juicy on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, they pair beautifully with a creamy honey mustard or ranch dipping sauce. Ideal for kids, adults, and anyone who loves comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup buttermilk (optional, for marinating)
- Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce (Choose One or Both):
Honey Mustard Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Ranch Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or ½ tsp dried)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
- Place chicken strips in a bowl with buttermilk.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor.
2. Set Up the Dredging Station
- Bowl 1: Combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
- Bowl 3: Mix Panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat the Chicken
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off.
- Dredge each strip in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere.
4. Cook the Chicken
🔥 Frying:
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels.
🔥 Baking:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place tenders on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🔥 Air Frying:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray tenders with oil.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce
- Mix all ingredients for your chosen sauce in a bowl.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot chicken tenders with your dipping sauce of choice.
- Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Double coat for extra crunch: After the first breadcrumb layer, dip in egg again and re-coat with breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—this keeps the oil temperature stable.
- Use Panko for a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Season every layer—flour, egg, and breadcrumbs—to ensure flavor in every bite.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting cayenne or adding chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
Would you like a spicy dipping sauce option too—like chipotle mayo or sriracha ranch? Or maybe a tropical twist like mango-lime aioli to match your love for bold flavors?