Crispy Chicken Tenders

The delicious aroma of frying chicken wafts through the kitchen, bringing back memories of family gatherings and carefree weekends. These crispy chicken tenders are a classic favorite that takes only 30 minutes to prepare and cook. The secret to achieving that perfect crunch lies in the combination of flour, cornstarch, and a blend of spices that elevate the flavor profile.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick weeknight dinner or for anyone wanting to impress guests with a crunchy appetizer. You can make these tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge, ready to be reheated when needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Each tender is coated to perfection and has a satisfying crunch.
• The blend of spices gives these tenders a burst of flavor.
• They cook quickly, making them a great option for busy nights.
• Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make crispy chicken tenders:

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts, cut into strips

For the Breading

• 1 cup flour
• 2 cups cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp garlic salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt

For the Batter

• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup water

For Frying

• 2 2/3 cups soybean oil

Note: Soybean oil can be replaced with vegetable oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use chicken thighs for juicier tenders.
• Swap brown sugar for honey for a different sweetness.
• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Replace eggs with a flaxseed substitute for vegan options.

How to Make It

Let’s dive into making these mouth-watering crispy chicken tenders.

Prepare the breading

In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, baking powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until well mixed and set aside.

Mix the batter

In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the water until fully combined. This will help the breading stick to the chicken.

Coat the chicken

Take each chicken strip and dip it into the batter first, ensuring it’s all coated, then roll it in the breading mixture until completely covered. Place the coated strips on a plate.

Heat the oil

In a large skillet, heat the soybean oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread in; it should sizzle immediately.

Fry the chicken

Carefully place a few chicken strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to remove the tenders and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy tenders.
• Allow the chicken to rest briefly after frying for maximum crispiness.
• Use a thermometer for precise cooking of the chicken.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste for a customized flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
• Pair with fresh veggies and a salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for game day or casual gatherings with friends.