Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders have been my go-to comfort food for as long as I can remember. There’s something magical about that shatteringly crisp coating giving way to tender, juicy chicken. I still have vivid memories of my mom making them on special occasions, filling the kitchen with that irresistible aroma. Now, I’ve perfected my own homemade crispy chicken tenders recipe, and I’m excited to share exactly how to make crispy fried chicken tenders that are even better than takeout. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
- Unbeatable Taste: Experience that perfect golden-brown crunch followed by incredibly juicy chicken.
- Quick & Easy Prep: These are truly easy crispy chicken tenders, perfect for even novice cooks.
- Budget-Friendly Meal: Making these tenders at home is significantly cheaper than buying them.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these classic fried chicken tenders.
- Healthier Than Fast Food: You control the ingredients and cooking oil for a better-tasting meal.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, making it an easy crispy chicken tenders recipe to whip up anytime.
- Versatile Serving: Delicious on their own or with your favorite sides and sauces.
Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect crunch. Here’s what you’ll need for the best breading for crispy chicken tenders:
- 1-2 pounds chicken tenders – I like to use tenders because they cook quickly and evenly.
- 1 large egg, beaten with 2 tablespoons water – This creates the binder that helps the flour stick.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This forms the base of our crispy coating.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt – Essential for flavor!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little kick and depth.
- Vegetable oil, for frying – You’ll need enough to come about 2 inches up in your skillet.
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
- Step 1: Start by heating about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a 9-inch skillet over medium-high heat. You’re aiming for a temperature between 365-375°F. Getting the oil to the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect, golden-brown crust and ensuring you learn how to get chicken tenders extra crispy.
- Step 2: While the oil heats up, prepare your dredging station. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, stirring until everything is well combined. This seasoned flour is the foundation of our flavorful coating.
- Step 3: In a separate, smaller bowl, beat the 1 large egg with 2 tablespoons water. This egg wash acts as the glue that holds our flour coating onto the chicken.
- Step 4: Now for the breading! Take each chicken tender and first dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, and finally, coat it generously with flour again. This double-dredge is key to how to get chicken tenders extra crispy.
- Step 5: Let the breaded tenders rest on a clean plate or wire rack for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the coating to set, which helps prevent it from falling off during frying and contributes to that desirable crispiness.
- Step 6: Test your oil temperature by dropping a tiny bit of flour into the skillet. If it sizzles immediately, your oil is ready. Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tenders instead of crispy ones.
- Step 7: Fry the tenders for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. You want to hear that satisfying sizzle!
- Step 8: Once cooked to perfection, transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels. This step is essential for absorbing any excess oil and maintaining that incredible crispiness.
- Step 9: Serve your amazing homemade chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the delicious result of learning how to get chicken tenders extra crispy!
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Elevate your homemade chicken tenders with these insider tips for that perfect crunch and juicy interior every single time:
- Always season your flour mixture generously. This is where the bulk of the flavor comes from, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper!
- Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (365-375°F) before adding the chicken. Too cool and they’ll be greasy; too hot and they’ll burn before cooking through. For more on safe frying temperatures, check out foodsafety.gov.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Frying in batches maintains the oil temperature, leading to crispier tenders.
- Letting the breaded tenders rest for 5 minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better, preventing it from falling off in the hot oil.
What’s the secret to perfect crispy fried chicken tenders?
The real secret lies in the double dredge and letting the breading set. Properly how to season chicken tenders for frying means building layers of flavor and texture, which this method ensures for ultimate crispiness. For more on the science of crispiness, you can explore resources on Serious Eats.
Can I make crispy fried chicken tenders ahead of time?
You can certainly prep the breaded chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate, uncovered, until ready to fry. This allows the coating to dry out slightly, which helps it crisp up even more.
How do I avoid common mistakes with crispy fried chicken tenders?
Avoid soggy tenders by ensuring your oil is hot enough and by not overcrowding the pan. Also, make sure to drain them properly on paper towels immediately after frying to wick away excess grease. For more tips on achieving perfect fried foods, consider looking into resources on Bon Appétit.
Best Ways to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
These golden beauties are incredibly versatile! They’re fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments. Wondering what to serve with crispy chicken tenders? I love a classic combo of creamy mashed potatoes and a crisp, fresh coleslaw. For a more casual vibe, serve them alongside some sweet potato fries and a simple green salad. You can even make them the star of a sandwich by tucking them into a soft bun with lettuce and your favorite sauce!
Nutrition Facts for Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for these delicious homemade chicken tenders. This is based on a serving size of about 3 tenders.
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: 600 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.
How to Store and Reheat Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
One of the best things about this homemade chicken finger recipe is that leftovers are almost as good as fresh! Once your delicious chicken tenders have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or a resealable bag. I usually pop some parchment paper between layers if I’m stacking them to prevent sticking. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
To reheat, the best way to bring back that glorious crispiness is to use your oven or an air fryer. Spread the tenders on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and wonderfully crispy again. If using an air fryer, you might only need 5-8 minutes at a similar temperature. Avoid the microwave if you can – it tends to make them a bit chewy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! You can easily slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders. Just aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly. This is a great way to make your own version of the best fried chicken strips if you only have breasts on hand. For more on cutting chicken, see this guide.
What’s the best oil for frying chicken tenders?
For that perfect crisp, a neutral oil with a high smoke point is ideal. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices. They allow the chicken to get super crispy without imparting any unwanted flavors, making them perfect for achieving that signature crunch of crispy fried chicken tenders. Learn more about different cooking oils here.
Why are my chicken tenders not crispy?
Several things can cause this. Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying – too cool and the chicken absorbs grease. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature. Finally, draining them properly on paper towels immediately after frying is crucial to maintain crispiness. For more troubleshooting, check out this resource.
How can I make my chicken tenders spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your seasoned flour is an easy way to introduce some heat. You can also toss the cooked tenders in your favorite buffalo sauce for an extra spicy kick that complements the natural crispiness of these crispy fried chicken tenders.
Variations of Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, it’s fun to experiment! For a rich, tangy flavor and incredibly tender chicken, try soaking your chicken in buttermilk crispy chicken tenders before breading. The acidity in the buttermilk helps tenderize the meat. If you’re craving heat, easily transform these into spicy crispy chicken tenders by adding cayenne pepper or a pinch of your favorite chili powder to the flour mixture. For a healthier twist, consider baking them at 400°F until golden and crisp, or try them in an air fryer for a similar texture with less oil. Explore more recipe variations.
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Crispy Chicken Tenders: 9 Steps to Amazing Flavor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy fried chicken tenders are a cherished family meal, offering an irresistible crunch and juicy interior. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and outshines any fast food option.
Ingredients
- 1–2 pounds Chicken Tenders
- 1 Egg, beaten with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- Vegetable Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a 9-inch skillet over medium-high heat to 365-375°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper, stirring well.
- In another bowl, beat the egg and mix it with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and coat again with flour.
- Let the tenders rest for about 5 minutes to set the breading.
- Check oil temperature; it should sizzle when flour is dropped in.
- Add chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, frying for approximately 8-10 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Season the flour well for maximum flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature between 365-375°F for optimal crispiness.
- Allow breaded tenders to rest for 5 minutes before frying.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Drain fried tenders on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Substitute chicken tenders with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate dried herbs like paprika or oregano into the flour mixture for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Swap half the all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
- Mix grated parmesan cheese into the flour for a cheesy twist.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Bake breaded tenders at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a healthier alternative.
- Soak chicken in buttermilk before breading for enhanced tenderness and flavor.
- Store seasoned flour in an airtight container up to 3 days ahead.
- Dredge chicken tenders and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooled tenders in a zippered freezer bag with parchment paper for up to 3 months.
- Reheat by baking at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
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