Golden, crunchy chicken tenders paired with a tangy dipping sauce make for a perfect appetizer or main course. These tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and can be fried, baked, or air-fried for a healthier option. The dipping sauce adds a creamy and flavorful touch to every bite.
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 breadcrumbs (Panko 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 spice)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Dipping Sauce (Honey Mustard or Ranch):
- 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 fresh chopped parsley or ½ tsp dried
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for 30 minutes to 1 hour for extra tenderness (optional).
- Set up a dredging station:
- Bowl 1: Flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove chicken from buttermilk (if marinated) and let excess drip off.
- Dredge in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture.
- Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tenders on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray tenders lightly with oil and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make the Sauce:
- Mix all ingredients for your preferred dipping sauce and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with dipping sauces and sides like fries, salad, or coleslaw.
Enjoy these crispy chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.