Get ready to take your chicken tenders game to the next level! Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food, a spicy kick, or a healthier option, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and crispy chicken tender recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From timeless favorites like buttermilk fried chicken tenders to innovative twists like maple dijon and gochujang glazed tenders, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet and tangy treat or a savory and spicy snack, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. So grab some chicken breasts, get creative, and let’s dive into the world of crispy chicken tenders!
Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
A Southern favorite gets a crispy makeover with this simple recipe that yields juicy and tender chicken strips.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken strips in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and spicy chicken tenders, perfect for a quick meal or party appetizer. A fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and classic comfort food, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 15-20 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Toss with cornstarch mixture to coat evenly.
6. Place chicken tenders on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together garlic, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders
Transform plain chicken tenders into crispy and mouthwatering bites with this easy air fryer recipe! With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious snack or meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Place panko breadcrumbs on a plate or shallow dish.
5. Remove chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Then, coat each tender in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Load the air fryer basket with the breaded tenders. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tenders
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these crispy and flavorful Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tenders! This recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing.
3. Dip chicken tenders into the buffalo-ranch mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: Hot and enjoy! You can also add your favorite dipping sauce like blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing.
BBQ Glazed Chicken Tenders
Transform plain chicken tenders into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this easy-to-make BBQ glaze recipe! Perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Brush the BBQ glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Brighten up your mealtime with these crispy and flavorful lemon pepper chicken tenders. A perfect blend of citrusy zing and savory goodness, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the lemon pepper mixture, coating evenly.
4. Dredge the coated tenders in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panko-Crusted Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with crispy Panko-crusted chicken tenders, perfect for a quick bite or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Teriyaki Chicken Tenders
Sweet and Tangy Teriyaki Chicken Tenders Recipe
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this sweet and tangy teriyaki chicken tenders recipe! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and infused with a sticky teriyaki glaze – these chicken strips are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken strips to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chicken tenders on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern-Style Fried Chicken Tenders
Get ready to savor the flavors of the South with these crispy and juicy fried chicken tenders! Marinated in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices, then dredged in a blend of flour, cornstarch, and paprika, these tender morsels are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain the chicken on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Baked Chicken Tenders with Almond Flour
A healthier twist on classic chicken tenders, this recipe uses almond flour to create a crispy and delicious exterior without the need for breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the egg and then coat in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these irresistible Maple Dijon Chicken Tenders, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken strips to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken tenders in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– For crisper tenders, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
– Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or honey mustard.
Cajun Spiced Chicken Tenders
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Cajun Spiced Chicken Tenders recipe! This southern-inspired treat is perfect for a quick lunch or an evening appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Dip each marinated chicken strip into buttermilk, then roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat.
5. Place coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Gochujang Chicken Tenders
Get ready for a spicy kick with this sweet and spicy Korean-inspired chicken tender recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken tenders in the cornstarch and flour mixture, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken tenders for about 5-7 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Tenders
Experience the tangy flavor of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe. Tender, juicy chicken strips are marinated in a zesty Greek yogurt mixture, resulting in an unforgettable taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this addictive and easy-to-make snack! Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders are a game-changer for anyone looking for a crispy, flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup cornflakes crumbs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornflakes crumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and lemon juice.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then roll in the cornflake mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tenders for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and smoky chicken tenders, perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the tenders in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lime and Cilantro Chicken Tenders
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your chicken tenders with this quick and easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cilantro.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your zesty and flavorful chicken tenders!
Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders with Coconut Flour
Discover the delight of crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without the gluten! This recipe uses coconut flour as a substitute to create a delicious and healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup coconut flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and dip each strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip the floured tenders in the beaten egg, then coat with an additional layer of coconut flour.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tenders for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Tenders
Elevate your game day with these sweet and tangy chicken tenders, perfect for snacking or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons chili sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss to coat with glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these 20 crispy chicken tenders recipes for every occasion! From classic buttermilk fried chicken to sweet and tangy teriyaki, there’s something for everyone. Try spicy Sriracha honey glazed chicken for a bold twist or go for air fryer crispy chicken for a healthier option. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try Korean gochujang or Cajun spiced chicken tenders for a flavor explosion. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping appetizer, these recipes have got you covered!
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