Homemade Chicken Tenders

Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these Homemade Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food. They’re easy to make and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.

Whether baked or fried, these golden-brown tenders are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet (for baking option)
• Deep skillet or frying pan (for frying option)
• Tongs or a slotted spoon

Ingredients Overview

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders work best, cut into strips if necessary.
• Flour and Seasonings: Flour creates a crisp coating, while seasonings add flavor.
• Egg Wash: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create an extra-crispy exterior.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Cut 1 pound of chicken breasts into 1-inch wide strips if not using pre-cut chicken tenders.
• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Set Up a Breading Station

• In one bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• In a second bowl, beat 2 eggs with 2 tablespoons of milk.
• In a third bowl, place 1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor (optional).

3. Bread the Chicken

• Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.
• Dip into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off.
• Coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Cook the Chicken

Baking Option

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the breaded chicken tenders on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Frying Option

• Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the chicken tenders in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Serve

• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Double Bread for Extra Crunch: Repeat the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps for an extra-thick coating.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair these chicken tenders with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve with steamed veggies or a baked potato.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze chicken tenders?
Yes! Freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cook time.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes or in an air fryer to restore crispiness.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by cutting into strips if needed.
2. Set up breading station with seasoned flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.
3. Coat each chicken strip in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
4. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or fry in oil at 350°F (175°C) until golden and cooked through.
5. Serve with dipping sauces and enjoy!

These Homemade Chicken Tenders are a family favorite and perfect for any occasion. Easy, delicious, and endlessly versatile, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Crispy on the outside

, tender and juicy on the inside, these Homemade Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food. They’re easy to make and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. Whether baked or fried, these golden-brown tenders are a guaranteed hit wit

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Equipment

• Kitchen Equipment Needed:
• Mixing bowls 
• Baking sheet (for baking option)
• Deep skillet or frying pan (for frying option)
• Tongs or a slotted spoon

Ingredients

  

• pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Prepare the chicken by cutting into strips if needed.
• Set up breading station with seasoned flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.
• Coat each chicken strip in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or fry in oil at 350°F (175°C) until golden and cooked through.
• Serve with dipping sauces and enjoy!
• These Homemade Chicken Tenders are a family favorite and perfect for any occasion. Easy, delicious, and endlessly versatile, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!