Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders That Kids Will Love
If you’re on the hunt for a dinner option that will make your kids squeal with joy, look no further than these Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders. These golden, crunchy bites are not only delicious but also simple enough for any home cook to master. I’ve made them countless times, and each batch brings smiles to little faces at the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
- Kid-Friendly Fun: These chicken tenders are a guaranteed hit with children thanks to their irresistible crunch and savory flavor.
- Nutritious Option: Made with lean chicken breast and minimal added ingredients, they provide a protein-packed meal without harmful preservatives.
- Quick and Convenient: With a prep time of under 20 minutes, they fit right into busy weeknight schedules.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunchboxes, dinner, or even parties, these tenders can adapt to many occasions.
- Personal Taste: I love this recipe because it allows me to put a homemade twist on a favorite fast-food item, giving my kids something familiar yet fresh.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Oven-baking or shallow frying for extra crispiness
This recipe features a simple breading technique that results in crispy, golden chicken tenders that can be baked for a healthier option or fried for that classic, indulgent crunch.
My Experience Making This Recipe
The first time I made these chicken tenders, I was blown away by how easy they were to whip up. Initially, I was nervous about the breading sticking, but a little patience made all the difference! This experience taught me the importance of letting the chicken sit in the breadcrumbs before cooking for that perfect crunchy finish.
How to Make Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders
To make these chicken tenders, you’ll be coating succulent chicken pieces in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture before cooking. Expect to have a wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake or fry! The key techniques involved here are properly dredging the chicken and ensuring that it is well-coated to achieve maximum crunchiness.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an even crispier texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create a lighter, airier coating.
- Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for an hour before breading. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Keep It Dry: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading. This helps the coating stick better and reduces excess moisture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether frying or baking, make sure there’s space between the chicken tenders. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping.
- Monitor the Temperature: If frying, maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure perfect frying without greasiness.
How to Serve Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders shine on their own, but you can elevate the meal with a few pairing suggestions:
- Serve with a side of honey mustard or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Pair with sweet potato fries for a delightful twist.
- Keep it simple and serve alongside fresh veggies for a balanced plate.
- Make it a fun family night with a ‘build your own sandwich’ station using whole-grain buns.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, maintaining that crispiness.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes to cater to gluten sensitivities.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version that grown-ups will love.
- Herbed Tenders: Incorporate dried herbs such as oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mix for added flavor.
- Oven-Baked Only: For a healthier option, simply spray the tenders with olive oil or cooking spray and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Highlights
These chicken tenders boast high protein from lean chicken breast and are a great source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy. They are also easily customizable for various diets, with gluten-free and dairy-free options available. As always, be sure to monitor portion sizes, especially for young eaters.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Breading Falling Off: If the breading comes off while cooking, ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated and rested before cooking.
- Not Crispy Enough: If your tenders are not crispy, make sure your oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) if frying, or consider baking them for a few more minutes without covering.
- Dry Chicken: To avoid dryness, do not overcook the tenders. Keep an eye on the internal temperature and remove them from heat at 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before breading to help the coating adhere. -
What can I add to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor?
You can mix in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite spices to amp up the flavor profile. -
How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). The coating should be a nice golden brown. -
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes! You can bread the chicken early in the day and store it in the fridge until ready to cook, making it a quick dinner option when you return home.
Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Deliciously crunchy chicken tenders that kids will love, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (optional for marinating)
Instructions
- If marinating, soak chicken strips in buttermilk for at least an hour.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- In one bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- In another bowl, place the beaten eggs.
- In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip in egg, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Place on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray if baking, or place in hot oil if frying.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or fry until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with dipping sauces and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs and ensure the chicken strips are well-coated. Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg