Chicken Tenders Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals

Right, let’s talk about chicken tenders. Everyone loves them, right? I mean, who can resist a crispy, juicy, golden-brown chicken tender, especially when it’s served with a side of your favourite dipping sauce? They’re perfect for a quick and easy dinner, a delicious lunch, or even a tasty snack. This article is all about chicken tenders, from the basics to some seriously delicious recipes, and a few tips and tricks along the way. I'll share some of my favourite ways to make these tasty morsels, and I’ll even throw in a few of my own personal experiences, because let’s face it, cooking is all about sharing, right?

(Part 1) The Chicken Tender Basics

Before we get to the good stuff, let’s talk about the basics. It’s important to understand the foundation of a good chicken tender, so you can create the best possible results in the kitchen.

What are Chicken Tenders?

Chicken tenders, sometimes called chicken strips, are essentially strips of boneless, skinless chicken breast that have been cut from the thinner, tender part of the breast. These cuts are naturally lean and tender, making them a great option for a quick and easy meal. You can find them pre-cut at most supermarkets, often in the refrigerated section, or you can make your own by cutting up a chicken breast yourself. It's really quite simple!

Why are they so Popular?

They're popular for a few reasons:

1. They're easy to cook: Chicken tenders are relatively quick and easy to cook, even for a beginner. They can be pan-fried, baked, or even deep-fried, depending on your preference. They're great for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
2. They're versatile: Chicken tenders can be served with a variety of sauces and sides, making them a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any meal. Think of all the delicious options – from classic honey mustard to spicy sriracha mayo!
3. They're kid-friendly: Kids love chicken tenders, and they're a great way to get them to eat some protein. Plus, they're easily shaped into fun shapes and sizes, which can make mealtime more enjoyable for little ones.

Choosing the Right Chicken

When choosing chicken tenders, look for ones that are firm and have a light pink colour. Avoid any that have a strange smell or a slimy texture. I usually opt for organic chicken whenever possible, because I prefer to know exactly where my food comes from, you know what I mean? You can also check the label for the “USDA Grade A” designation, which indicates that the chicken has met certain quality standards.

(Part 2) Classic chicken tender recipes

Let’s get to the good stuff – the recipes! Now, you've got to understand, there are many, many ways to make chicken tenders, so I'm going to start with some classic, easy-to-follow recipes. And, I'll also add a personal touch to them, like I always do!

The Classic pan-fried chicken Tenders

This is my go-to recipe when I'm looking for a quick and easy meal. It's perfect for weeknights when I don't have much time to cook. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 pound chicken tenders
2. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3. 1/4 cup cornstarch
4. 1 teaspoon salt
5. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
6. 1/4 teaspoon paprika
7. 1/4 cup milk
8. 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Here's how to make them:

1. Combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish. You can use a whisk or a fork to mix it all together.
2. In another shallow dish, whisk together the milk and oil. You’ll want to make sure the milk and oil are well-combined.
3. Dip each chicken tender in the milk mixture, then coat it well in the flour mixture. Make sure you coat all sides of the chicken tender.
4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before you add the chicken tenders. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into the skillet. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
5. Carefully place the chicken tenders in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet. If you do, the chicken tenders won't cook evenly.
6. Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce. I like to serve my chicken tenders with a side of mashed potatoes or a green salad.

Tip: I like to add a dash of garlic powder to the flour mixture for extra flavour. Trust me, it makes a big difference! I usually add about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, but you can adjust it to your taste.

The Baked Chicken Tenders

For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders. This method is also great for a large batch of tenders, because you can bake them all at once! Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 pound chicken tenders
2. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
5. 1/4 cup bread crumbs
6. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
7. 1 tablespoon olive oil

Here's how to make them:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Make sure the oven is preheated before you start cooking the chicken tenders. This will help ensure that the chicken tenders cook evenly.
2. Combine the flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Mix the ingredients well.
3. Combine the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese in another shallow dish. Mix the ingredients well.
4. Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then coat it well in the bread crumb mixture. Make sure you coat all sides of the chicken tender.
5. Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken tenders from sticking to the baking sheet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil. Make sure you drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken tenders.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. You can check if the chicken tenders are cooked through by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken tender. It should register at 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
8. Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce. I like to serve my baked chicken tenders with a side of mashed potatoes or a green salad.

Tip: You can add your own personal touch by adding different herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture. I like to add a tablespoon of dried Italian herbs for a bit of flavour. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

(Part 3) chicken tender variations

Now, I’m sure you’re thinking, “that's great, but I want to make something a little more exciting”. So, let’s talk about some fun variations on the classic chicken tender recipes. These are all easy to make, and they’ll definitely add a bit of flair to your meal.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Who doesn't love a good buffalo wing? Now, imagine that same spicy flavour in tender, juicy chicken strips. That's exactly what these buffalo chicken tenders are all about!

You can use the pan-fried or baked method for these, but you’ll need to add a special sauce at the end. Here’s what you’ll need for the sauce:

1. 1/2 cup melted butter
2. 1/4 cup hot sauce
3. 1 tablespoon vinegar
4. 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Here’s how to make the sauce:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is combined. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
2. Toss the cooked chicken tenders in the sauce and serve immediately. Make sure you coat the chicken tenders evenly in the sauce.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavour, use a less spicy hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of hot sauce, such as Frank's RedHot or Crystal Hot Sauce.

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a sweet and tangy flavour, honey garlic chicken tenders are the perfect choice. They’re so delicious and easy to make! This recipe is best made with the pan-fried method.

Here’s what you’ll need for the honey garlic sauce:

1. 1/4 cup honey
2. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
3. 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
4. 1 tablespoon minced garlic
5. 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

Here’s how to make the sauce:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and heat over low heat until the honey is melted and the sauce is combined. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
2. Toss the cooked chicken tenders in the sauce and serve immediately. Make sure you coat the chicken tenders evenly in the sauce.

Tip: You can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavour and crunch. You can also use toasted sesame seeds for extra flavour.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

For a light and refreshing flavour, lemon pepper chicken tenders are the way to go. They’re so simple, yet so delicious! This recipe can be made with either the pan-fried or baked method.

Simply add a teaspoon of lemon pepper seasoning to the flour mixture for the pan-fried chicken tenders, or to the breadcrumb mixture for the baked chicken tenders. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to the chicken tenders before serving.

Tip: Serve with a side of lemon wedges for a tangy twist.

(Part 4) Going the Extra Mile: homemade chicken tenders

Now, I’ve been talking about using pre-cut chicken tenders, but what about making them yourself? It’s really not as hard as you think! You can get a beautiful, even cut and create some truly amazing chicken tenders by hand.

Making Your Own Chicken Tenders

Here's how to make your own chicken tenders:

1. Get a good chicken breast: Start with a good-quality chicken breast, and make sure it's boneless and skinless. You can ask your butcher to cut the chicken breast into tenders for you, or you can do it yourself.
2. Cut into strips: Cut the chicken breast into strips that are about 1 1/2 inches wide and 3 inches long. You can adjust the size based on your preference. Make sure the strips are relatively even in size so they cook evenly.
3. Tenderize (optional): If you want extra tender chicken, use a meat mallet to tenderize the strips. This is especially helpful if you're using chicken breasts that are a bit thicker.
4. Use the same recipe: Once you have your strips ready, you can follow any of the recipes I've shared for the pan-fried or baked chicken tenders.

Tip: When cutting the chicken, make sure the strips are relatively even in size, so they cook evenly. You can also trim any excess fat from the chicken breast.

(Part 5) All About Dipping Sauces

Now, let’s talk about the most important part – the dipping sauce. I love a good dipping sauce, and I’m sure you do too! They're the perfect way to add a burst of flavour to your chicken tenders.

Classic Dipping Sauces

Here are a few classic dipping sauces that go perfectly with chicken tenders:

1. Honey Mustard: This is a classic combination that is always a crowd-pleaser. Simply mix honey and mustard together in a bowl until combined. You can use Dijon mustard or yellow mustard, depending on your preference.
2. Ranch Dressing: This creamy and tangy dressing is a popular choice for chicken tenders. You can buy ranch dressing at the store or make your own. If you're making your own ranch dressing, you can add your favourite herbs and spices, such as dill, parsley, and garlic powder.
3. bbq sauce: This sweet and smoky sauce is a great option for a flavourful and indulgent treat. There are many different types of BBQ sauce, so you can choose one that fits your taste.
4. Ketchup: While it might seem basic, ketchup is always a good choice for chicken tenders. You can also try using different types of ketchup, such as spicy ketchup or honey mustard ketchup.

Creative Dipping Sauces

Want to get a bit more adventurous? Here are a few creative dipping sauces that will elevate your chicken tender game:

1. Sriracha Mayo: Mix sriracha hot sauce with mayonnaise for a spicy and creamy dipping sauce. You can adjust the amount of sriracha hot sauce to your taste.
2. Garlic Aioli: This creamy sauce made with garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon juice is a delicious and flavourful option. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to the aioli.
3. Blue Cheese Dressing: This tangy and creamy dressing is a great choice for those who like a bit of a kick. You can make your own blue cheese dressing by blending blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice.
4. Chipotle Mayo: Combine chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with mayonnaise for a smoky and spicy dipping sauce. You can adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to your taste.

Making Your Own Dipping Sauce

You can also make your own dipping sauces. I love to experiment with different flavours and ingredients. For example, I’ve made a delicious dipping sauce with a mix of mango chutney, Dijon mustard, and honey. It’s a bit of a sweet and spicy kick, and it really adds something special to the chicken tenders.

(Part 6) Serving Chicken Tenders

Now that you know how to make the perfect chicken tenders, let’s talk about serving them up! There are endless possibilities, but here are a few of my favourite ways to serve chicken tenders.

side dishes

Chicken tenders go well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

1. french fries: These are a classic side dish for chicken tenders. You can make your own french fries or buy them pre-made from the grocery store.
2. Mashed potatoes: This creamy and comforting side dish is a perfect pairing for chicken tenders. You can add herbs and spices to your mashed potatoes, such as chives, parsley, or garlic powder.
3. Macaroni and cheese: Another classic and cheesy side dish that complements chicken tenders perfectly. You can make your own macaroni and cheese or buy it pre-made from the grocery store.
4. Salad: For a lighter and healthier option, serve chicken tenders with a side salad. You can use a variety of greens for your salad, such as lettuce, spinach, or kale. You can also add fruits, vegetables, and nuts to your salad.
5. Veggies: grilled vegetables, roasted vegetables, or steamed vegetables are a healthy and delicious side dish for chicken tenders. Some good options for grilled or roasted vegetables include asparagus, broccoli, carrots, and peppers.

The Whole Meal

Chicken tenders can be the star of a whole meal, or you can add them to another dish. Here are a few ideas:

1. Chicken Tender Sandwich: Use the chicken tenders to make a delicious sandwich. You can use a variety of breads, such as hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, or ciabatta rolls. You can also add your favourite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese.
2. Chicken Tender Salad: Combine chicken tenders with your favourite salad greens and toppings for a light and refreshing meal. You can add fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to your salad. You can also use a variety of dressings, such as vinaigrette, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing.
3. Chicken Tender Pizza: Add chicken tenders to a pizza for a unique and flavourful twist. You can use a variety of pizza toppings, such as cheese, sauce, vegetables, and meats.

(Part 7) Tips and Tricks

Alright, now let's go over a few tips and tricks to help you make the best chicken tenders possible. These are things I've learned over the years, and I’m sure they’ll help you too!

Tips

1. Don't overcrowd the pan: When pan-frying chicken tenders, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn't steam. If the pan is too crowded, the chicken tenders will not brown properly and may steam instead of fry.
2. Use a meat thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken tenders are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). This will help prevent foodborne illness.
3. Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy chicken. This is especially important for chicken tenders that have been pan-fried or baked.

Tricks

1. Use a seasoned flour mixture: Add your favourite herbs and spices to the flour mixture for extra flavour. Some good options for herbs and spices include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano.
2. Use a panko breadcrumb mixture: panko breadcrumbs create a crispy and light coating on the chicken tenders. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, which helps to create a crispy coating.
3. Double-fry the chicken tenders: For extra crispy chicken tenders, double-fry them. This means that you will fry the chicken tenders once, then remove them from the oil, let them cool slightly, and then fry them again. This will help to create a super crispy coating.

(Part 8) Storing and Reheating

Now that you’ve made a batch of delicious chicken tenders, you might be thinking about storing them for later. Let’s talk about the best way to store them and reheat them so they taste amazing!

Storing

Chicken tenders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually store them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will help to prevent the chicken tenders from drying out and absorbing the flavours of other foods in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Chicken tenders can be reheated in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Microwave: Heat the chicken tenders in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. You can reheat the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate or in a microwave-safe container.
2. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This is a good option for reheating chicken tenders that have been baked or pan-fried.
3. Skillet: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through. This is a good option for reheating chicken tenders that have been pan-fried.

Tip: To prevent the chicken tenders from drying out, add a tablespoon or two of water to the skillet or baking sheet when reheating. You can also add a little bit of butter or oil to the skillet or baking sheet to help prevent the chicken tenders from drying out.

(Part 9) Chicken Tenders Around the World

I love to learn about different cultures and how they use chicken. Let's talk about chicken tenders around the world and see how they're cooked and served!

Chicken Tenders in the United States

Chicken tenders are a popular dish in the United States, and they're often served with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce. They're also a common ingredient in chicken tender sandwiches. Chicken tenders are a popular menu item at restaurants, fast food chains, and school cafeterias across the United States.

Chicken Tenders in the United Kingdom

Chicken tenders are also popular in the United Kingdom, where they're often called "chicken goujons." They're often served with chips (fries) and a dipping sauce like mayonnaise or ketchup. Chicken goujons are often found in pubs, restaurants, and takeaways across the United Kingdom.

Chicken Tenders in Asia

In Asia, chicken tenders are often marinated in soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other spices before being pan-fried or deep-fried. They're often served with rice or noodles. Chicken tenders are a popular street food in many parts of Asia.

Chicken Tenders in Latin America

In Latin America, chicken tenders are often cooked with a variety of spices and herbs, such as cumin, oregano, and chili powder. They're often served with rice, beans, and vegetables. Chicken tenders are a popular dish in many parts of Latin America, especially in Mexico, where they are often served with tortillas.

(Part 10) FAQ

Let’s finish this off by going over some common questions about chicken tenders. I’m sure you’ve got some questions, so let’s get them answered!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about chicken tenders:

1. Are chicken tenders healthy?

Chicken tenders can be a healthy option if they are cooked in a healthy way. Pan-frying or baking chicken tenders is a healthier option than deep-frying them. However, it is important to watch the amount of oil used and the type of breading used, as this can add extra calories and fat. If you are looking for a healthier option, you can try using whole-wheat breadcrumbs or even almond flour for breading.

2. Can I freeze chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze chicken tenders. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. You can freeze chicken tenders before or after they are cooked.

3. How long do chicken tenders take to cook?

Chicken tenders typically take 3-4 minutes to cook per side when pan-fried and 15-20 minutes to bake. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken tenders. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken tenders are cooked through.

4. What can I do with leftover chicken tenders?

Leftover chicken tenders can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, and soups. You can also dice them up and add them to a pasta dish or stir-fry. Leftover chicken tenders can also be used to make chicken salad or chicken sandwiches.

5. How do I make chicken tenders crispy?

To make chicken tenders crispy, use a breadcrumb mixture that contains panko breadcrumbs. You can also double-fry the chicken tenders for extra crispiness. Double-frying the chicken tenders helps to create a super crispy coating.

Well, there you have it! That's my guide to making delicious and easy chicken tenders. I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through the world of chicken tenders! And, I hope this has inspired you to try some new recipes and explore different ways to enjoy this classic dish. Now get in the kitchen and have some fun!