Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Here’s a detailed recipe for Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce that you’ll love! These tenders are golden, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, paired with a tasty homemade dipping sauce.

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Crispy Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• For the chicken tenders:

  • 1 lb (about 450g) chicken breasts (cut into strips, or use pre-cut chicken tenders)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional, for extra seasoning)

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions for the chicken tenders:

1. Prep the chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1 inch wide. If you have pre-cut chicken tenders, you’re good to go!

2. Set up your dredging stations:

   • In a shallow dish, add the flour.

   • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.

   • In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme/oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the chicken:

   • Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated and shake off any excess.

   • Dip the flour-coated chicken in the egg, ensuring it’s completely coated.

   • Roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well.

4. Heat the oil:

   • Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread or breadcrumb in; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

5. Fry the tenders:

   • Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, not overcrowding the pan. You may need to fry in batches.

   • Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F / 75°C).

   • Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

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Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard, if you prefer)

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions for the dipping sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a tangier sauce, add more lemon juice or mustard; if you like it sweeter, add a little more honey.

3. Serve the dipping sauce alongside your crispy chicken tenders.

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Serving Tips:

• Serve the crispy chicken tenders with some fresh veggies like carrot sticks or cucumber slices, and maybe a side of fries or a salad for a full meal.

• You can also get creative with your dipping sauces. Some other options include ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or sweet and sour sauce.