Crispy chicken tenders are a family favorite that never goes out of style. Perfectly golden on the outside and juicy on the inside, these homemade chicken strips are easy to prepare and taste better than takeout. Paired with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, they make an ideal appetizer, snack, or dinner option.
Whether you fry them for maximum crunch or bake them for a healthier version, this recipe guarantees delicious chicken tenders every time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
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1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless chicken breast, cut into strips)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons milk (or buttermilk for extra flavor)
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2 cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For the Dipping Sauce
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard if preferred)
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor before breading.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three bowls:
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Flour in the first bowl.
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Whisked eggs and milk in the second bowl.
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Breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, and salt in the third bowl.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and then press into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 4: Fry the Tenders
Heat 1 ½–2 inches of oil in a skillet or deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken tenders in small batches for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a serving platter and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot with the homemade dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
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For extra crispy tenders, double coat the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
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To make baked chicken tenders, place breaded strips on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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For air fryer chicken tenders, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, turning once.
Conclusion
These crispy chicken tenders with dipping sauce are a quick, easy, and flavorful recipe that everyone will love. Whether you prepare them fried, baked, or in the air fryer, they deliver a crunchy bite with juicy chicken inside. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.