Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

 Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly golden chicken tenders. These Crispy Chicken Tenders are packed with juicy flavor on the inside and an irresistible crunch on the outside. They’re a hit with both kids and adults—perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or party platters. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce (like the creamy, tangy one pictured here!) and watch them disappear in minutes.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 2 lbs chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts cut into strips)

• 1 cup buttermilk

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• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

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• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil for frying

Optional Dipping Sauce (Creamy Spicy Mayo):

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, stir to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to tenderize and infuse flavor.

2️⃣ Prepare the Breading Station:
Set up three shallow bowls:

• One with flour, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

• One with beaten eggs.

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• One with panko breadcrumbs.

3️⃣ Coat the Tenders:
Remove chicken from the marinade. Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, then dip in the eggs, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs until well coated.

4️⃣ Fry Until Golden:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Fry the tenders in batches for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

5️⃣ Drain and Serve:
Remove chicken and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired.

6️⃣ Make the Sauce (Optional):
Mix all dipping sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:
Pair these chicken tenders with french fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. They also make a great wrap or sandwich when stuffed in pita or flatbread with lettuce and pickles.

Final Thoughts:
These homemade Crispy Chicken Tenders are everything you crave in comfort food—tender, flavorful, and fried to perfection. Whether you’re dipping into spicy mayo or honey mustard, you’re guaranteed satisfaction in every bite. Try them once, and they’ll become your new favorite go-to recipe for any occasion!

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