Homemade chicken tenders are a beloved dish, cherished by both kids and adults alike. They offer a perfect combination of crispy coating and juicy chicken, making them an ideal choice for a quick dinner, party appetizer, or a satisfying snack. In this article, we will explore the best homemade chicken tenders ever, providing you with tips, techniques, and a delicious recipe to ensure your tenders are always a hit. Let’s dive into the world of crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders!
Why Homemade Chicken Tenders?
While you can easily find chicken tenders at restaurants or in the freezer aisle, nothing beats the flavor and freshness of homemade chicken tenders. Here are some reasons why making them at home is the best choice:
Control Over Ingredients
When you make chicken tenders at home, you have complete control over the ingredients. This allows you to:
- Choose high-quality chicken
- Customize the seasoning and breading
- Avoid preservatives and additives
Cost-Effective
Preparing chicken tenders at home is often more economical than buying them pre-made. You can purchase chicken in bulk, and your homemade batch will typically yield more servings at a lower price.
Fun for the Whole Family
Making chicken tenders can be a fun activity for the whole family. Kids can help with breading, while adults can manage frying or baking, creating a bonding experience while preparing a delicious meal.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Tenders
To make the best homemade chicken tenders, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken
The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner. Choose based on your preference.
Breading Mixture
The breading is what gives chicken tenders their signature crunch. You can create a classic breading mixture using:
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
Seasoning the breading mixture is crucial. Common spices include:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
Optional Marinade
Marinating the chicken before breading can enhance the flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade can include:
- Buttermilk
- Hot sauce
- Seasonings
The Best Homemade Chicken Tenders Recipe
Now that we have covered the essentials, let’s get into the step-by-step recipe for making the best homemade chicken tenders.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup of buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into strips about 1 inch wide. Place them in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over the chicken. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken strips in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders
To ensure your homemade chicken tenders are the best they can be, consider these helpful tips:
Choose the Right Oil
Using the right oil can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your chicken tenders. Oils with high smoke points, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, are ideal for frying.
Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent
Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. If the oil is too hot, the tenders may burn; if it’s too cool, they can become greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Experiment with Flavors
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or incorporating different spices can elevate the flavor profile of your chicken tenders.
Conclusion
Making the best homemade chicken tenders is a rewarding experience that brings delicious results. With the right ingredients, a careful preparation process, and a little creativity, you can create crispy, flavorful chicken tenders that will satisfy the whole family. Whether served with dipping sauces or as part of a larger meal, these tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household.