Description
Enjoy these mouthwatering crispy chicken tenders with a delicious dipping sauce, perfect for fall gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup for a vegan alternative)
- A dash of hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Wash and pat dry your chicken tenderloins. If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips, ensuring they’re even for uniform cooking.
- Set up the breading station: In three separate bowls, prepare your breading station: Bowl 1: Add flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until fully combined. Bowl 3: Pour the breadcrumbs into the bowl.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they stick well. Repeat this process for each piece.
- Fry the chicken: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. To test if it’s ready, drop a breadcrumb in; if it bubbles and sizzles, it’s time to fry. Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the skillet, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Prepare the dipping sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and hot sauce, if using. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate your crispy chicken tenders with the delicious dipping sauce on the side. Gather your loved ones, pour a warm drink, and enjoy a cozy night filled with delicious flavors.
Notes
For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs and maintain oil temperature while frying. Consider marinating chicken in buttermilk for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American