Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Sauce

Introduction

Who doesn’t love crispy fried chicken tenders? They make for a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy. With a crispy coating and tender, juicy meat, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite. And the best part? They come with a mouthwatering sauce that adds an extra burst of flavor. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make the perfect crispy fried chicken tenders with sauce.

Ingredients

For the chicken tenders:

1 pound chicken breast tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
Dip the coated chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated.
Return the chicken tender to the flour mixture and coat it again.
Carefully place the coated chicken tender into the hot oil. Fry for about 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the chicken tender from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Repeat the process with the remaining chicken tenders.
While the chicken tenders are frying, prepare the sauce by combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Serve the crispy fried chicken tenders with the sauce on the side for dipping.

Variations

There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
Herb-infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the flour mixture for a flavorful twist.
Buttermilk soak: Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for a few hours before coating them for added tenderness and flavor.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerances.

Tips

To ensure your crispy fried chicken tenders turn out perfect every time, follow these tips:

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature.
Do not overcrowd the pan or fryer. Fry the chicken tenders in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
Use a wire rack instead of a plate to drain the fried chicken tenders. This will help them stay crispy.
For an even crispier coating, double-dip the chicken tenders in the flour and egg mixture.
Experiment with different dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or sweet and sour sauce.

Conclusion

These crispy fried chicken tenders with sauce are a crowd-pleasing dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With a crunchy coating and tender meat, they are irresistible. The homemade sauce adds a tangy and sweet flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a game day snack, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy some finger-licking goodness!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast tenders?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken tenders on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

3. How long can I store the leftover chicken tenders?

Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

4. Can I freeze the chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken tenders. After frying them, allow them to cool completely. Place the tenders in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are heated through.

5. Can I use a different sauce for dipping?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces for dipping. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your crispy fried chicken tenders with sauce and savor every bite of this delicious meal.