Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders

If you’re in the mood for a delicious dinner that combines crunch, flavor, and a hint of spice, then look no further than these Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders! Perfectly seasoned and coated to give you that irresistible crunch, these tenders are not only easy to make but also a hit with the entire family. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a party appetizer, these tenders will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish in your kitchen!

Why This Recipe Works

The genius of these Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders lies in the marinade and the coating. The combination of buttermilk, soy sauce, honey, and spices tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with robust flavor. The panko breadcrumbs create that sought-after crispy texture, making each bite a satisfying crunch. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, with a hint of warmth from the Sriracha. Plus, they’re baked rather than fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste!

What You’ll Need

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenderloins or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into ¾-inch strips (about 16 strips total)
• ¾ cup milk or buttermilk
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha chili paste (or hot sauce of choice)
• 2 cups whole wheat panko bread crumbs (or regular panko if unavailable)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Chopped green onions (optional for serving)

Recommended Tools

• Baking sheet: For achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Mixing bowls: To marinate the chicken and mix the coating.
• Whisk: For blending the marinade ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right proportions of each ingredient.

Mastering Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders: How-To

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk (or buttermilk), soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and Sriracha. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, pour in the panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crunch, you can mix in a pinch of salt or additional seasonings if desired.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow any excess marinade to drip off, then coat each piece of chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Arrange the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Tenders

Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the chicken strips. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the tenders are out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Replace chicken tenderloins with firm tofu or tempeh cut into strips.
• Use plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) instead of regular milk.
• Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan alternative.
• For the marinade, ensure soy sauce is used without any non-vegan additives.

Method to the Madness

The process of creating these Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders is straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor and tenderness. The use of panko breadcrumbs ensures a delightful crunch, while baking allows for a healthier cooking method compared to frying. The combination of savory and sweet elements in the marinade creates a unique taste that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, from steamed rice to fresh salads.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken strips a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. The baked chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing the breaded but uncooked chicken strips. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Common Qs About Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Just make sure to slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into ¾-inch strips for even cooking.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step, although the taste may not be as rich.

Can I make these tenders gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the coating.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

These tenders are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a homemade peanut sauce for a delightful twist.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
• Healthy Baked Chicken Nuggets
• Easy Korean BBQ Chicken

Bring It to the Table

These Crispy Asian Chicken Tenders are just what you need to elevate your dinner game. With their delightful crunch and flavor-packed marinade, they are sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself on a cozy weeknight, these tenders are a fantastic choice. Serve them alongside your favorite sides, and watch as everyone devours them with joy. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and don’t forget to share the love!