Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders: Tender pieces of chicken that are perfect for frying.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken and help the breading stick.

Beaten eggs: Acts as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.

Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy coating for the chicken tenders.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the seasoning.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken tenders until they are golden brown.

For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken tenders. After the initial coating of flour mixture, eggs, and breadcrumbs, repeat the process by dipping them again in the eggs and then the breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker, crunchier exterior that enhances the overall texture and flavor.

• chicken tenders - Substitute with tofu strips: Tofu strips provide a similar texture and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of chicken, making it a great vegetarian alternative.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavor and a slightly different texture to the coating.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the coating adhere to the tenders and adds a tangy flavor, while also tenderizing the meat.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier, providing a crunchier texture to the fried tenders.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with umami, enhancing the overall taste of the tenders.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat profile and can be used to maintain the spiciness without altering the appearance of the coating.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it ideal for frying and achieving a crispy exterior.

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
• Place the cooled chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. This step helps to maintain their crispy texture.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the chicken tenders freeze until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, remove the chicken tenders from the baking sheet and place them in a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• Store the chicken tenders in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, try to consume them within this period to enjoy their optimal taste and texture.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. You can also use an air fryer set to 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes for a quicker option.
• For a microwave option, place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as baking or air frying.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and regain their crispiness.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through, until they are heated through. Note: This method may not retain the crispiness as well as others.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Broiler Method: Preheat your broiler on high. Place the chicken tenders on a broiler-safe pan. Broil for 2-3 minutes on each side, keeping a close eye to prevent burning, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Frying pan: A large, heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking and to hold the hot oil for frying the chicken tenders.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, salt, and pepper, and for dipping the chicken tenders in the flour mixture and beaten eggs.

• Tongs: Essential for safely placing the chicken tenders into the hot oil and turning them to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

• Paper towels: Used to drain the excess oil from the fried chicken tenders, ensuring they remain crispy.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the flour, breadcrumbs, and oil.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until they are well combined.

• Plate: For holding the breaded chicken tenders before they are fried.

• Thermometer: Optional but useful for checking the oil temperature to ensure it is at the right heat for frying.

• Cutting board: A clean surface to place the chicken tenders before and after breading.

• Knife: Useful for trimming any excess fat or tendons from the chicken tenders before breading.

Prepare the coating stations: Set up your flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls before starting. This will streamline the breading process.

Use a deep fryer: If you have a deep fryer, use it instead of a frying pan. It maintains a consistent temperature and cooks chicken tenders more evenly.

Batch cooking: Fry multiple chicken tenders at once, but don't overcrowd the pan. This saves time and ensures even cooking.

Preheat the oil: Make sure the vegetable oil is hot before adding the chicken tenders. This reduces cooking time and prevents sogginess.