Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce are the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or a snack, these golden, crispy chicken tenders deliver the perfect combination of crunch and flavor. Paired with a tangy and creamy dipping sauce, they are bound to be a crowd-pleaser. The recipe is simple, easy to follow, and perfect for all skill levels in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into creating these mouthwatering chicken tenders from scratch!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup regular breadcrumbs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the chicken tenders. Cut the chicken breasts into strips, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs and pour in the buttermilk. Stir to combine.
- In a third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs.
- To coat the chicken, first dip each strip into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the chicken.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them and cook evenly.
- Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- To make the dipping sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders immediately, paired with the creamy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
These Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a simple weeknight dinner. The key to their crispy texture lies in the combination of panko and regular breadcrumbs, along with the quick frying technique that locks in flavor. The dipping sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and creaminess that elevates each bite. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a delicious and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love!