Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break this down into easy steps:
- Season the chicken strips generously with salt and pepper.
- Create a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Next, dip it into the egg and allow any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat until hot.
- Fry the chicken tenders for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot alongside your dipping sauce of choice.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving these crispy chicken tenders can be as fun as making them! Consider arranging them on a large platter next to an array of vibrant dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or a tangy barbecue sauce. If you want to jazz up your meal, serve them with a side of fresh coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced plate.
How to Store & Freeze
Got leftovers? No problem! To keep your chicken tenders fresh, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for about 3 days. Want to enjoy them later? You can freeze them for up to 3 months. For safe reheating, bake them in the oven at 375°F until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To make this recipe a success, keep a few handy tips in mind:
- Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; you can test this by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and bubble.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy tenders.
- If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, consider baking instead of frying! Just place the breaded chicken strips on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden.
Creative Twists
Looking to spice things up? Here are some variations to consider:
- Swap out breadcrumbs for seasoned panko for a crunchier texture.
- Mix in some Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika to the flour for an extra kick.
- Try garnishing your tenders with freshly chopped herbs, like parsley or cilantro, before serving for an added fresh touch.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time to prepare these crispy chicken tenders is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking.
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with pork strips or even eggplant for a vegetarian version.
How do I keep the tenders crispy when storing?
Wrap them loosely in foil or store in a container with a paper towel to absorb moisture, which helps maintain their crunch.
Now that you’ve got the recipe and tips at hand, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your delicious crispy chicken tenders!
