These crispy chicken tenders are coated in a perfectly seasoned breading and fried to golden perfection. Pair them with a tangy homemade dipping sauce for a snack or meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1-inch wide. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Set Up Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), fry the chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders warm with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Let me know if you’d like to adjust the recipe!