Perfect Homemade Chicken Tenders
Achieve crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders with a juicy interior at home with this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for a family meal or party appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken strip first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
- Then dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Finally, coat generously in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place chicken tenders in the hot oil, without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove cooked tenders with tongs and place on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crispiness, double-dip your chicken in the flour and egg mixture before the final breading. You can also bake these tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a lighter option.