Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining golden-brown, crunchy chicken strips with a delicious and creamy dip. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or craving a satisfying snack, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. The crispy coating provides the perfect contrast to the juicy chicken inside, while the dipping sauce elevates the flavor to new heights. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders (or cut chicken breasts into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Begin by preparing your chicken tenders. If using chicken breasts, cut them into even strips, ensuring they are all about the same size for even cooking.
- Set up the Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well. In a second bowl, beat the two eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it is well-coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by a coat of the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere properly.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is hot enough when a small piece of breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately.
- Fry the Chicken Tenders: Working in batches, carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken cooks, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once all the tenders are fried and crispy, serve them hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy these deliciously crunchy chicken tenders with your favorite side dishes or as a snack!
Tips and Variations:
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Add extra seasoning to the breading mixture to tailor the flavor to your preference, such as adding Italian herbs or smoked paprika for a different twist.
- If you prefer to bake the tenders instead of frying them, place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray with a light coat of cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- The dipping sauce can be customized by adding hot sauce, sriracha, or other spices to adjust the heat level.
Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce is a versatile recipe that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With its perfectly crispy coating and flavorful sauce, this dish is a hit every time.