Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ cup buttermilk (optional, for extra tenderness)
  • Oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken:
    • If using buttermilk, marinate chicken tenders for 30 minutes for extra juiciness.
    • Pat dry before coating.
  2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
    • In one bowl, mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
    • In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
    • In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bread the Tenders:
    • Dredge each tender in flour mixture, dip into the eggs, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
    • Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
  4. Fry to Perfection:
    • Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
    • Fry tenders in batches, 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Drain on paper towels.
  5. Make the Dipping Sauce:
    • Whisk together mayo, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve tenders hot with dipping sauce on the side.

Want me to add some fun variations — like spicy tenders or a ranch-style sauce?

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