Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes

• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

• Servings: 4 servings

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon water or milk

• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Vegetable oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Tools Needed

• 3 shallow bowls or plates

• Frying pan or deep fryer (or baking sheet and oven for baked version)

• Whisk or fork

• Tongs or slotted spoon

• Paper towels

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Stations

Set up three shallow bowls or plates:

1. Flour mixture: Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Egg wash: Beat eggs with water or milk.

3. Breadcrumbs: Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese (if using).

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Step 2: Bread the Chicken

• Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.

• Dredge each piece first in the flour mixture, coating evenly and shaking off excess.

• Dip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.

• Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

• Place breaded tenders on a baking sheet or plate.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders

Option 1: Pan-Frying (Crispiest)

• Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering (~350°F/175°C).

• Fry tenders in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).

• Drain on paper towels.

Option 2: Oven-Baking (Healthier)

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Place tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation.

• Lightly spray tenders with cooking spray or brush with oil.

• Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

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Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.

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Step 5: Serve

Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside fresh-cut fries, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.

• Try dipping in BBQ sauce, ranch, buffalo sauce, or sweet chili sauce for variety.

• Perfect for game days, parties, or casual family dinners.

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Variations

• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

• Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mix.

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Tips for Success

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

• Let tenders rest on a wire rack before serving to keep crispiness.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan or baking sheet to ensure even cooking.

• Use a meat thermometer to check for perfect doneness.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 20g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 550mg

(Values vary depending on cooking method and exact ingredients)