Make incredibly crispy chicken tenders perfect for a family meal. This recipe focuses on achieving that satisfying crunch you love.
Author:Amaya Sato
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Pat the chicken tenders completely dry with paper towels. This step helps the breading stick and crisp up.
In one shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk together.
Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
Dredge each tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured tender into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
Press the tender firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, coating all sides well. Place the breaded tenders on a wire rack.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the tenders into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry for 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Remove the tenders from the oil and place them back on a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispness!
Notes
For extra crispness, you can chill the breaded tenders for 30 minutes before frying.
Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature; if it is too low, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
Panko breadcrumbs are essential for the best texture.