Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce -

Chicken tenders have long been a beloved family favorite, known for their tender meat and crispy exterior. This recipe elevates the classic chicken tender with the addition of panko breadcrumbs, which provide an irresistible crunch, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Moreover, the homemade dipping sauce complements the tenders perfectly, offering a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a party, or just craving a savory snack, these Crunchy Golden Chicken Tenders are easy to make and sure to impress.

Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Crunchy Golden Chicken Tenders recipe! These perfectly breaded chicken strips are coated in panko for an irresistible crunch. Paired with a simple, homemade dipping sauce that balances creaminess and tang, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these tenders are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends. Dive into a delicious experience today!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deeper flavor)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

- Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into uniform strips, approximately 1-inch wide. Pat each strip dry with paper towels to ensure that the breading sticks effectively.

Set Up the Breading Station:

- Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process:

- In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

- In the second bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the Dijon mustard until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

- Pour the panko breadcrumbs into the third bowl, keeping them separate.

Bread the Chicken:

- Take each chicken strip and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring to shake off any excess flour.

- Next, dip the floured strip into the egg mixture, coating it thoroughly.

- Finally, roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage for a crispy texture. Repeat this process until all chicken strips are breaded.

Heat the Oil:

- In a large frying pan, pour in about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready for frying (about 350°F or 175°C).

Fry the Chicken Tenders:

- Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are crispy.

- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

- In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Serve:

- Present the hot, crispy chicken tenders on a large serving platter, with the delightful dipping sauce served in a small bowl on the side for an inviting display.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Garnish the platter with fresh herb sprigs such as parsley or cilantro for added color, and serve alongside cut veggies like carrot sticks and cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.