Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast (cut into strips)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine the chicken strips, buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Breading:
   • In one bowl, place the flour.
   • In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).
3. Coat the Chicken:
   • Remove chicken from the marinade, letting the excess buttermilk drip off.
   • Coat each strip in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Fry the Chicken:

4. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
   • Ensure the oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken strips halfway.
5. Cook the Chicken:
   • Fry the breaded chicken strips in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Remove and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Make the Sauce:

6. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and smoked paprika.
   • Stir until smooth and creamy.

Serve:

7. Assemble the Dish:
   • Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with the dipping sauce and a side of fries or salad.
   • Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for presentation.

Tips:

• For a healthier option, bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breading for a spicy kick.
• Pair with multiple sauces like ranch, barbecue, or buffalo sauce for variety.

Enjoy these crunchy and flavorful chicken tenders! Let me know if you’d like additional variations or sides.