Chicken tenders are a popular and versatile dish that is loved for their crispy exterior and tender interior. They are a great option for a quick and easy meal, and they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
What are Chicken Tenders?
Chicken tenders are strips of boneless, skinless chicken breast that are breaded and fried. They are often served as a kid-friendly meal, but they are also enjoyed by adults.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Cut the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Dredge in flour: Dredge the chicken strips in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in egg: Dip the chicken strips in the beaten eggs.
- Coat in breadcrumbs: Coat the chicken strips in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken.
- Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Remove the chicken strips from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken tenders can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- Dipping sauce: Serve chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
- Sandwiches: Place chicken tenders on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
- Salads: Add chicken tenders to a salad for a protein-packed meal.
- Wraps: Wrap chicken tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tenders
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, making them ideal for chicken tenders.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken tenders will not cook evenly and may become soggy.
- Let the chicken rest: After frying the chicken tenders, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Experiment with different breading combinations: You can experiment with different breading combinations, such as adding Parmesan cheese or herbs to the breadcrumbs.
Chicken tenders are a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. By following these simple tips, you can create a crispy and flavorful meal that is sure to please your family and friends.
