simple recipe for Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water or milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup regular breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips of similar size.
2. Set up Breading Station:
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs with water or milk.
- In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Dip it in the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
4. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (about 350°F/175°C), carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey (optional), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
6. Serve:
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders with the dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy your crispy, crunchy chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce!