The origin of breaded chicken tenders can be traced back to the United States in the mid-20th century. Originally known as chicken fingers, this dish was created as a kid-friendly alternative to traditional fried chicken. The simplicity of the recipe and the irresistible crunch of the breading quickly made it a favorite among both children and adults alike.

Despite its humble origins, perfecting the art of breaded chicken tenders can be a challenge for even the most experienced home cooks.

The delicate balance between a crisp coating and moist chicken requires precision and finesse. However, with the right ingredients and technique, anyone can master this delicious dish.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, breaded chicken tenders are sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the crispy, savory goodness of this timeless classic.

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: The main protein source in this recipe, chicken breast is a lean and versatile meat that is perfect for breading and frying. Make sure to cut the chicken into thin strips to create tender and juicy chicken tenders.

Plain Flour: This ingredient is used for coating the chicken before dipping it into the egg mixture. The flour helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken and creates a crispy outer layer when combined with the breadcrumbs.

Eggs: The eggs are whisked together to create a binding mixture for the breadcrumbs to stick to the chicken. This helps create a crunchy and delicious coating on the chicken tenders.

Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are an essential part of the breading process, adding a crispy texture to the chicken tenders. You can use either panko breadcrumbs for a lighter and airier coating or regular breadcrumbs for a denser texture.

Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful red color to the breading mixture. It complements the other seasonings and adds depth to the overall flavor of the chicken tenders.

Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is used to add a savory and aromatic flavor to the breading mixture. It helps enhance the overall taste of the chicken tenders without overpowering the other seasonings.

Onion Powder: Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the breading mixture. It works well with the other seasonings to create a well-rounded and delicious coating for the chicken tenders.

Salt: Salt is a crucial ingredient for seasoning the breading mixture and enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken tenders. Make sure to season the chicken tenders generously with salt to bring out the flavors of the other spices.

Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a hint of heat and a bold flavor to the breading mixture. It helps balance out the other seasonings and adds a subtle kick to the chicken tenders.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Suggestions:

– Serve the breaded chicken tenders with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
– Pair the chicken tenders with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing meal.
– Make a chicken tender wrap by placing the tenders in a flour tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of dressing.
– Serve the chicken tenders on top of a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
– Enjoy the chicken tenders as a protein-packed snack on their own, straight out of the oven.

Variations:

– Add a kick of spice to the breading by mixing in some cayenne pepper or chili powder.
– Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or seasoned breadcrumbs, for added flavor and texture.
– Try using different seasonings in the breading mix, such as Italian seasoning, cumin, or smoked paprika, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
– Cut the chicken breast into strips instead of tenders for a different shape and presentation.
– Make a Parmesan-crusted version of the chicken tenders by adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breading mix for a cheesy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cook breaded chicken tenders?

To cook breaded chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. You can also fry tenders in a skillet with oil over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side.

Can I air fry breaded chicken tenders?

Yes, you can air fry breaded chicken tenders. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I store leftover breaded chicken tenders?

Leftover breaded chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Can I freeze breaded chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze breaded chicken tenders. Place them in a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Breaded Chicken Nuggets
• Chicken Tenders
• Buffalo Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Fingers

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Breaded Chicken Tenders

by Nabeela Kauser

Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these homemade chicken tenders are a crowd-pleasing favorite. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, they are fried to perfection for a deliciously crispy bite.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 369 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 500 g Chicken Breast fillets, skinless and boneless
• ▢ 100 g Plain Flour
• ▢ 2 Eggs
• ▢ 100 g Breadcrumbs
• ▢ 1 tsp Paprika
• ▢ 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Onion Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Salt
• ▢ 1 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

• Slice the chicken breast fillets into strips, about 2cm wide.
• In a shallow bowl, combine the plain flour with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs.
• In a third bowl, spread out the breadcrumbs.
• Dredge each chicken strip first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
• Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Fry the breaded chicken tenders in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain any excess oil.
• Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Notes

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy coating on the chicken tenders.

You can customise the seasoning according to your preference by adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture.

These breaded chicken tenders are perfect for serving as a snack, appetiser, or as part of a main meal.

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 369kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 35gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 162mgSodium: 942mgPotassium: 592mgFibre: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 198IUVitamin C: 3mgVitamin D: 1µgCalcium: 73mgIron: 3mg

Keyword Breaded Chicken, Chicken, Chicken Tenders, Cooking, Food, Fried Chicken, Recipe

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