Crispy fried chicken tenders are a beloved comfort food, known for their golden-brown crust and juicy, tender interior. These strips of chicken are coated in a seasoned batter, then deep-fried until perfectly crisp. The result is a dish that is both satisfying and versatile, suitable for family dinners, parties, or casual snacking. The crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the moist chicken inside, while garnishes like lemon wedges and fresh herbs add brightness. Served with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup, fried chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Their appeal lies not only in taste but also in the simplicity of preparation, making them a staple in kitchens worldwide.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast strips
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Oil for deep frying
- Lemon wedges and parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Season the flour mixture: In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Make the wet batter: In another bowl, whisk eggs with milk until smooth.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then dredge in the seasoned flour. For extra crispiness, repeat the process by dipping back into the egg and flour again.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Arrange the chicken tenders on a plate, garnish with lemon wedges and parsley, and serve with dipping sauces.
Servings:
This recipe serves 6–8 people, depending on portion size.
Note:
Crispy fried chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh, when the crust is crunchy and the chicken juicy. The combination of flour and cornstarch ensures a light, crisp coating, while double-dipping creates a thicker crust that holds up well. Frying at the correct temperature is crucial—too low and the chicken absorbs oil, too high and the crust burns before the inside cooks.
This recipe can be customized easily. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, adding more cayenne for spice or herbs like thyme for fragrance. The tenders pair beautifully with a variety of sauces, making them versatile for different occasions. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore crispness, though they rarely last long once served.
Crispy fried chicken tenders highlight the joy of homemade comfort food. They are simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, offering a balance of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages. Each bite delivers a crunch followed by tender, juicy chicken, making them a timeless favorite. More than just a dish, they are a symbol of warmth, tradition, and the pleasure of sharing food with family and friends.