Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

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These crispy chicken tenders are a perfect blend of crunchy coating and juicy chicken. Coated in a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb mixture and fried to golden perfection, they are served with a delicious dipping sauce for an irresistible bite every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins (about 10-12 pieces)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
    • Start by seasoning the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper on both sides.
    • Set up a breading station: in one shallow dish, place the flour. In another, whisk together the eggs and water. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Bread the Chicken:
    • Dip each chicken tender into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
    • Next, dip the chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s completely coated.
    • Then, coat the chicken in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick. Repeat with all the chicken tenders.
  3. Fry the Chicken:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
    • Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  4. Make the Dipping Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference by adding more honey or mustard.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the crispy chicken tenders with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes like fries or a fresh salad!

Tips:

  • For extra crispiness, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the egg wash and breadcrumbs before frying.
  • If you prefer baked tenders, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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