30 Minute Chicken Tenders Recipe
Chicken tenders are a universal comfort food—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for dipping. Whether you’re serving them to kids for a quick weeknight dinner, bringing them to a party, or enjoying them as a treat on a lazy weekend, these easy-to-make chicken tenders are sure to impress.
The beauty of this 30-Minute Chicken Tenders recipe is in its simplicity. You can make these tenders in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients, and they’ll rival any takeout or frozen version. But it’s not just about speed—it’s about flavor and texture. A golden, crispy crust with a tender, juicy interior is what makes this recipe stand out.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect chicken tenders every time, including tips for achieving the best texture, variations to spice things up, and even ideas for serving and pairing. Let’s dive into this crispy, tender goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a foolproof method to make crispy, juicy chicken tenders in 30 minutes.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- Start by prepping your chicken. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into tenders by cutting the breast against the grain into 1 to 1 ½-inch wide strips.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In one shallow dish, place 1 cup of flour.
- In a second shallow dish, beat the two eggs. You can add a little water or milk to thin the eggs slightly, but this is optional.
- In a third shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs. This combination creates a super crispy crust. Feel free to add more seasoning here (like garlic powder, cayenne, or Italian seasoning) if you want an extra flavor boost.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
- Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour, coating it evenly and shaking off the excess. This helps the egg wash stick better.
- Next, dip the floured chicken piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s coated all over.
- Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good, even coating.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders
- Heat about 2 cups of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about ¼-inch deep.
- Test the oil by dropping in a few breadcrumbs—if they sizzle immediately, the oil is ready.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the tenders halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the tenders rest for a minute before serving to retain juiciness.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders
Choosing the Right Chicken:
- Chicken breast vs. chicken tenders: If you can find actual chicken tenders (the small, muscle part under the breast), they’re the perfect size and tend to be more tender. However, chicken breasts work just as well when sliced into tenders.
Seasoning:
- Double coating: For an even crispier crust, you can dip the chicken back into the egg and breadcrumbs after the first coat. This double-dipping method makes the crust extra crunchy and substantial.
- Flavor options: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Add cayenne pepper for heat, lemon zest for brightness, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
Frying:
- Oil temperature: To avoid greasy tenders, make sure the oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F). You can use a thermometer to monitor the oil, or drop a piece of bread in to check. If it browns in 30 seconds, the oil is hot enough.
- Shallow frying: You don’t need to deep fry—shallow frying works perfectly and reduces the amount of oil absorbed into the chicken. Just make sure the chicken pieces are coated well and turned halfway through cooking.
Keeping Chicken Crispy:
- Rest on a wire rack: If you’re making a larger batch of chicken tenders, set them on a wire rack instead of a plate to help maintain crispness. If you place them directly on a plate, the heat will cause condensation, making them soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Drying the Chicken:
Before breading, ensure the chicken is dry. Excess moisture will cause the breading to slide off during cooking and lead to a soggy crust.
2. Overcrowding the Pan:
Frying too many tenders at once reduces the temperature of the oil, making the chicken soggy instead of crispy. Fry in batches to keep the oil hot.
3. Using Cold Oil:
Make sure the oil is properly heated before adding the chicken. Cold oil will cause the breading to absorb more oil and lose its crispiness.
4. Skipping the Resting Period:
Let the chicken rest for a minute or two after frying. This allows the juices to redistribute inside the chicken, keeping it moist.
Ways to Serve Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas for pairing or turning them into a full meal:
1. Chicken Tender Wraps:
Wrap the tenders in a soft tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce (like ranch or buffalo sauce). You can add some cheese and avocado for extra richness.
2. Chicken Tender Salad:
Make a healthy salad by adding crispy chicken tenders on top of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with ranch or your preferred dressing.
3. Chicken Tender Sliders:
Serve the tenders on slider buns with pickles, a slice of cheese, and a dollop of mayonnaise or mustard for a tasty sandwich.
4. Chicken Tender Platter:
For a crowd, serve the chicken tenders family-style with a few dipping sauces and sides like mashed potatoes, fries, or coleslaw.
5. Kid-Friendly Meal:
Pair the chicken tenders with some mac and cheese, apple slices, and a small salad for a well-rounded, kid-approved meal.
6. Flavor Variations & Seasoning Ideas
Get creative with your chicken tenders by switching up the seasonings or breading. Here are some ideas:
1. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders:
Add hot sauce to the egg wash or toss the cooked chicken tenders in a mixture of melted butter and buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy twist.
2. Parmesan Herb Chicken Tenders:
Mix grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture along with dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil for a more savory and Italian-inspired version.
3. Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders:
Combine shredded coconut with the breadcrumbs for a tropical-inspired variation. Serve with a sweet chili sauce for dipping.
4. Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders:
Add lemon zest and black pepper to the flour mixture, and top the tenders with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice once cooked.
How to Make Chicken Tenders Healthier
If you’re looking to make your chicken tenders a bit lighter, here are a few tips:
- Baking: Instead of frying, coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Swap out the regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat breadcrumbs to add fiber.
- Air Frying: If you have an air fryer, it’s a great alternative to frying. Simply spritz the breaded chicken with a little oil and cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will result in juicier tenders, though they might take slightly longer to cook due to the extra fat.
Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Make sure you press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken after coating it in the egg wash, and avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
This 30-Minute Chicken Tenders recipe is everything you want in a quick, delicious, and versatile meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a meal for yourself, these chicken tenders come together quickly and can be customized to suit any taste. Crispy, tender, and packed with flavor, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen in no time.
Advanced Techniques for Even Crispy Chicken Tenders
While the basic 30-minute recipe will give you delicious results, there are a few advanced techniques that can elevate your chicken tenders to the next level. Here are some additional tips to help you achieve perfect, crispy, and juicy chicken every time.
1. Double Dipping for Extra Crunch
If you’re looking for an ultra-crispy crust, double dipping is the way to go. After you coat the chicken tenders in flour, dip them in the egg wash again and then roll them in breadcrumbs. This double layer creates a thicker, crunchier crust that stays intact better during cooking.
How to Double Dip:
- Coat the chicken in flour.
- Dip the floured chicken in the egg wash.
- Roll the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing gently.
- Repeat the process: dip the chicken back into the egg wash and coat it again in breadcrumbs.
This technique gives the tenders an extra layer of crispiness and prevents the breading from falling off easily.
2. Use Buttermilk for Extra Tenderness
Buttermilk not only helps with tenderizing the chicken but also contributes to flavor. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) makes the chicken more juicy and flavorful, giving it a slightly tangy undertone. The acids in buttermilk break down proteins in the meat, keeping it moist and tender during the cooking process.
How to Use Buttermilk:
- Combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (optional) and your seasonings of choice.
- Marinate the chicken strips in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for best results.
- Once marinated, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, and proceed with breading and frying.
Buttermilk gives a slightly crispier crust, too, and the flavor is definitely worth the extra step.
3. Seasoning the Breading
Seasoning the breadcrumbs themselves ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. While seasoning the chicken itself is important, don’t overlook the breading! For maximum flavor, add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs.
Herbed Breadcrumbs:
- Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to your breadcrumb mixture for a subtle Italian twist.
- For a touch of heat, mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumbs.
Extra Crunch:
- Cornstarch or cornmeal mixed with breadcrumbs will add even more crispness to the coating, resulting in a crunchier texture.
Alternative Cooking Methods: Baking & Air Frying Chicken Tenders
While frying is the traditional method to achieve crispy chicken tenders, there are alternative cooking methods that are healthier and still produce great results. Here’s how to bake or air fry chicken tenders for those who prefer a lighter option.
Baking Chicken Tenders (Healthier Option)
Baking chicken tenders in the oven is a great alternative to frying. You’ll still get crispy, crunchy chicken with a fraction of the oil, and it’s easy to prep ahead.
How to Bake Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack set over a baking sheet. The wire rack helps the heat circulate around the tenders, ensuring they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
- Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help with browning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Pro Tip: If you want extra crispiness, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Air Frying Chicken Tenders (Even Healthier)
An air fryer is another fantastic alternative to deep frying, producing crispy tenders with minimal oil. The air fryer uses hot circulating air to crisp the breading, giving it that perfect crunch while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
How to Air Fry Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray or olive oil. You don’t need much oil—just a light coat.
- Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overlapping, as this can cause uneven cooking.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Pro Tip: If you’re cooking a large batch, do it in batches. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best results.
Perfect Sides for Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some of the best side dishes that pair perfectly with crispy chicken tenders.
1. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
A classic pairing! Crispy fries, either regular or sweet potato, complement the crunch of chicken tenders. You can make them in the oven or air fryer for a healthier twist. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup or BBQ sauce.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt and garlic powder to fries for extra flavor.
2. Coleslaw
A tangy, crunchy coleslaw is the perfect contrast to the crispy, savory chicken. The creaminess of the coleslaw balances the crispiness of the tenders and provides a refreshing, cool bite.
Pro Tip: Add some apple slices or raisins to your coleslaw for a sweet contrast.
3. Mac and Cheese
For a true comfort food feast, serve your chicken tenders alongside a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. The rich, velvety sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken, making it an indulgent meal.
Pro Tip: Top your mac and cheese with some crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.
4. Veggies
Pair your tenders with a healthy vegetable side, like roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even a green bean almondine. Vegetables add color, fiber, and balance to the meal.
Pro Tip: Toss the veggies in olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon before roasting to enhance flavor.
5. Side Salad
A simple green salad with lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect light side to go with your chicken tenders. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Chicken Tenders
Leftover chicken tenders are a fantastic ingredient for a variety of meals. Here are a few creative ways to repurpose them:
1. Chicken Tender Wraps or Tacos
Shred the leftover tenders and wrap them in a tortilla with lettuce, cheese, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch or salsa. You can also use them in tacos with your favorite toppings like cilantro, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
2. Chicken Tender Salad
Chop up the tenders and toss them in a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing. You can add nuts or dried cranberries for extra crunch and sweetness.
3. Chicken Tender Sandwiches
Make a quick chicken tender sandwich by placing the tenders on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a little mayo or mustard. Add cheese to turn it into a chicken tender “deluxe” sandwich.
4. Chicken Tender Parmesan
Turn your leftovers into chicken parmesan by topping the tenders with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Pop them in the oven to melt the cheese, and serve over pasta or with garlic bread.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This 30-Minute Chicken Tenders Recipe
This 30-Minute Chicken Tenders recipe is a go-to dish that can be customized in countless ways. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry, the result is always crispy, golden, and absolutely delicious. The combination of seasonings and the option to add extra crunch with double-dipping or using buttermilk guarantees that your chicken tenders will be a hit with anyone you serve them to.
What’s more, the versatility of this recipe allows you to serve it in so many different ways—wraps, salads, sandwiches, or just as-is with dipping sauces. With just a few tweaks, you can make this dish even healthier, too, or create new flavor profiles to keep things exciting.
30 Minute Chicken Tenders Recipe
Chicken tenders are a universal comfort food—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for dipping. Whether you’re serving them to kids for a quick weeknight dinner, bringing them to a party, or enjoying them as a treat on a lazy weekend, these easy-to-make chicken tenders are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Station:
Set up three shallow bowls:
In the first bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In the second bowl, whisk the eggs.
In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using). - Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat both sides and shake off excess flour.
Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is well-coated.
Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure an even, crispy coating. - Cook the Chicken Tenders:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches).
Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Flip gently to avoid the breadcrumbs falling off. - Serve:
Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.