These homemade chicken tenders are everything you want in a crispy bite—juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and bursting with flavor. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and either fried, baked, or air-fried, they’re versatile and easy to make. Paired with a creamy honey mustard or ranch dipping sauce, they’re a hit with both kids and adults. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack, these tenders are guaranteed to disappear
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 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 heat)
- 1 cup buttermilk (optional, for marinating)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
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 fresh chopped parsley (or ½ tsp dried)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
- Place chicken tenders in a bowl with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- Bowl 1: Mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
- Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Cook the Chicken
Frying Method:
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels.
Baking Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place tenders on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Frying Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray tenders lightly with oil and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce
- Mix all ingredients for your chosen sauce in a small bowl.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve
- Serve the hot, crispy tenders with your favorite dipping sauce and sides like fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
- Double coat for extra crunch: Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a thicker crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—this keeps the oil temperature stable.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture than regular ones.
- Customize the seasoning: Add Italian herbs, Cajun spice, or lemon zest for a twist.
These crispy chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re dipping into honey mustard, ranch, or even spicy sriracha mayo, every bite is golden perfection. Want to turn it into a meal? Try serving them in wraps, over salads, or in sliders for a fun twist!