Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce Recipe

Crispy Chicken Tenders are a classic comfort food—golden, crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. These tenders are coated in a flavorful breading and fried or baked to perfection. Paired with a delicious dipping sauce, they make the perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish. Whether served with honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce, these tenders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
2. Add chicken tenders and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. Mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish.
2. Beat eggs in a separate bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess liquid drip off.
2. Dip each tender into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and back into the flour mixture for a double coating.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• Frying Method: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
• Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tenders on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and smoked paprika until smooth.
2. Chill for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange crispy tenders on a platter.
2. Serve with dipping sauce and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Tenders:

• Use buttermilk for extra tenderness.
• Double coat for maximum crunch.
• Try different sauces—ranch, BBQ, or buffalo sauce.

For more dipping sauce ideas, check out this guide! 🍗🔥✨