These crispy chicken tenders are golden, crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and fried or baked to perfection, they’re perfect for snacks, dinners, or party platters. Served with a creamy dipping sauce, they’re always a crowd favorite.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 4
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Frying pan or baking tray
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels
Ingredients
🍗 Chicken Tenders
- 500g Chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
🧂 Dipping Sauce (Creamy)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes
- Buttermilk: Makes chicken tender and juicy
- Panko breadcrumbs: Gives extra crunch
- Paprika & garlic: Adds smoky savory flavor
- Dipping sauce: Balanced sweet, tangy, and creamy
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Mix chicken strips with buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
In one bowl, mix flour with seasonings. In another bowl, place breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade. Dredge in flour mixture, dip again in marinade lightly, then coat with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Frying Method
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry tenders for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Baking Method
Place on a lined tray, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot chicken tenders with dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Tips
- Use panko for extra crunch
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying
- Rest chicken after cooking for juiciness
- Double-coating gives a thicker crust
Variations
Spicy Tenders
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to marinade.
Parmesan Crusted
Add grated parmesan to breadcrumbs.
Air Fryer Version
Cook at 380°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
Honey Garlic Version
Toss cooked tenders in honey garlic glaze.
Final Thoughts
These crispy chicken tenders are crunchy, juicy, and full of flavor. Paired with a creamy dipping sauce, they make the perfect comfort food for kids, parties, or quick dinners.