Looking for crispy chicken tenders that will impress your family and friends? You’re in luck! We’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes to spice up your snack game, perfect for any occasion. From classic comfort food to international flavors, we’ve gathered a diverse range of crispy chicken tender recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re hosting a party, serving a crowd, or just need a quick and easy dinner solution, these irresistible recipes will guide you through the process of creating the crispiest, most flavorful chicken tenders ever. So, what’s on the menu? From traditional buttermilk fried chicken to international flavors like Korean BBQ and Greek-style tzatziki, we’ve got something for everyone.
Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
This beloved recipe yields crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken tenders that are sure to please. With a simple marinade and a gentle frying process, you’ll be enjoying finger-lickin’ good chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or electric skillet to 350°F.
3. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in flour mixture (paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
4. Fry chicken tenders for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and spicy chicken tenders, perfect for a quick meal or party appetizer. The combination of tender chicken, crispy exterior, and sticky sriracha honey glaze will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tenders until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce and honey. Brush the glaze onto the chicken tenders during the last 2 minutes of baking.
6. Bake for an additional 4-5 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
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, flipping halfway through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe
Say goodbye to greasy chicken tenders and hello to crispy, juicy goodness with this easy Air Fryer recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon buttermilk
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten egg and finally coat with a thin layer of flour.
3. Place coated tenders in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket. Spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
4. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check for crispiness and cook an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tenders
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these crispy buffalo ranch chicken tenders! Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy richness of ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken tender in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tenders for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together buffalo sauce and ranch dressing.
5. Remove fried tenders from oil and toss with the buffalo-ranch mixture.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panko-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Lemon Aioli
A crispy Panko crust gives these chicken tenders a satisfying texture, while a tangy lemon aioli adds a burst of citrus flavor. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, then coat in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Serve hot with Lemon Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
BBQ Glazed Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these tender and juicy chicken strips smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the BBQ glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken tenders.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken Tenders
Maple Dijon Chicken Tenders Recipe
Savory chicken tenders smothered in a sweet and tangy maple dijon glaze, perfect for snacking or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken tenders in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup and dijon mustard until smooth.
5. Place coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the maple dijon glaze over the chicken tenders, making sure they’re evenly coated.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: For an extra crispy coating, broil the chicken tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Serve hot and enjoy!
Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your chicken tenders with this simple and delicious recipe. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these crispy and juicy tenders are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken Tenders
A fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, these crispy Korean-inspired chicken tenders are perfect as an appetizer or main course. With a hint of gochujang and a crunchy exterior, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast tenders
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
4. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge chicken in cornstarch, then panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Fry for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Yogurt Dip
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken tenders to the mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and parsley.
7. Serve the herb-crusted chicken tenders with the yogurt dip on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Mango Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory recipe, where coconut-crusted chicken tenders meet a tangy mango sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, unsweetened shredded coconut, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken strip into beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Mango Sauce:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve warm with coconut-crusted chicken tenders.
Smoky Paprika Chicken Tenders
Smoky Paprika Chicken Tenders: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Elevate your chicken tenders game with the deep, smoky flavor of paprika and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the marinade mixture, coating evenly, then place on a plate or tray.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Remove chicken strips from marinade and place on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Drizzle buttermilk over the top of each strip, then bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Tenders
Sweet and savory teriyaki glaze elevates classic chicken tenders to a new level.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Add chicken tenders to the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken tenders until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
6. Place fried tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top of the tenders.
8. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes total (including frying and baking).
Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Tenders
A twist on classic chicken tenders, these cheesy bites are sure to please the whole family. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, melted cheese filling, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crumbs, cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, then coat in crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken Tenders with Tzatziki
Discover the flavors of Greece with these crispy chicken tenders smothered in a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the yogurt mixture, then coat with a light dusting of breadcrumbs.
5. Fry the coated chicken tenders in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these spicy and savory chicken tenders that combine the flavors of jalapeños, cream cheese, and crispy breading.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cilantro, feta cheese (if using), and jalapeño.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the cream cheese mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines crispy bacon with juicy chicken tenders. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a satisfying afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 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 small bowl, mix together garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken tenders with olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic mixture.
4. Cut bacon slices in half and wrap each tender with a piece of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place wrapped tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Lime Chicken Tenders
Transform your average chicken tenders into a flavorful fiesta with this easy recipe! This dish combines the zesty kick of lime juice, the heat of chili flakes, and the crunch of crispy breading.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured tenders in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs mixed with chili powder and lime juice.
5. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond Flour Chicken Tenders (Keto-Friendly)
Satisfy your cravings with these scrumptious almond flour chicken tenders, perfect for a keto-friendly snack or meal. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these tender bites are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the egg and then coat in the almond flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your chicken tenders game to the next level! This collection of 20 crispy chicken tender recipes offers something for every occasion. From classic buttermilk fried to spicy sriracha honey, garlic parmesan baked to air fryer crispy, and many more in between, there’s a recipe to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer for your next party, these delicious chicken tenders are sure to please.