Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a crispy, juicy, and downright delicious Chicken Tenders Recipe, you’ve landed in the right place! These chicken tenders are a perfect blend of spices and textures, making them a fantastic option for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and can be customized to suit your taste. So, let’s dive in and create some mouthwatering chicken tenders that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Chicken Tenders Recipe apart is the combination of flavors and the method of preparation. The use of buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with flavor. The crispy whole wheat Panko bread crumbs provide a satisfying crunch, while the smoky paprika and hint of honey add a unique twist that elevates these tenders above the ordinary. Whether you’re dipping them in your favorite sauce or enjoying them plain, these chicken tenders are sure to impress.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt plus 1/2 teaspoon, divided
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
• 1 teaspoon onion powder, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup low fat buttermilk*
• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenderloins or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 3/4-inch strips (about 12 strips total)
• 2 cups whole wheat Panko bread crumbs (if you can’t find whole wheat, swap regular Panko*)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 egg whites, lightly beaten or 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey plus 1 teaspoon, plus additional to taste
• Pinch salt

Cook’s Kit

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Baking sheet – to bake the chicken tenders
• Wire rack – to allow air circulation for extra crispiness
• Whisk – for mixing the egg whites and mustard
• Meat thermometer – to ensure chicken is cooked through

Method: Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and honey with the buttermilk. Stir well to combine. Add the chicken strips to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This will help the tenders cook evenly and remain crispy.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading

In a shallow dish, combine the whole wheat Panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard until frothy. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and shake off excess. Dip each strip into the egg white mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the Panko mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even coating.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

Step 6: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken is baking, mix together ½ cup of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust the sweetness to taste. This creamy dipping sauce perfectly complements the crispy chicken tenders.

Smart Substitutions

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free Panko bread crumbs.
• Swap out the buttermilk for a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a dairy-free alternative.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly dipping sauce.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken tenders come out perfectly:

• Make sure the chicken is completely coated in the buttermilk for maximum tenderness.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; this ensures even cooking.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my chicken tenders are soggy?

Soggy chicken tenders can result from not using a wire rack or overcrowding the baking sheet. Always use a wire rack to allow air circulation and prevent steaming.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What dipping sauces work well with these chicken tenders?

Aside from the creamy yogurt dip, you can try honey garlic sauce, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy ranch dressing for a kick!

Can I fry these chicken tenders instead of baking them?

Definitely! For frying, heat oil in a deep skillet and cook the breaded chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Don’t Miss These

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders – Another delicious variation to try!
• Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe – Sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love!

Final Bite

These homemade chicken tenders are not just a meal; they are a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the crispy coating and tender chicken, perfectly paired with a flavorful dipping sauce. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a weeknight dinner, this Chicken Tenders Recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to savor the crunch and the flavor!

Share on Pinterest