Description
Crispy Chicken Tenders with Fries
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
500g chicken tenders or fillets
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Fries:
500g potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon mustard
Dash of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)
.
Toss the fries with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy
.
2. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder
.
Coat each tender in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs
.
3. Fry the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat
.
Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce (optional):
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce until smooth
.
5. Serve:
Plate the crispy chicken tenders with the fries and serve with dipping sauce on the side
.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed process for perfect results. First, prep your stations: have three shallow dishes ready for the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixtures. For the fries, ensure they are cut to an even thickness (about 1/4 inch) for uniform cooking. After tossing with oil, arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet—crowding will steam them. For the chicken, pat the tenders completely dry with paper towels before seasoning; this helps the coating stick. When breading, use one hand for dry coatings (flour and breadcrumbs) and the other for the wet egg to avoid clumpy fingers. Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C) for frying; a thermometer is ideal. Fry in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate this classic meal with creative sides and presentations. Serve the tenders and fries in a lined basket for a casual, pub-style feel. Offer a trio of dipping sauces: classic honey mustard, creamy ranch, and spicy barbecue. For a lighter side, add a crisp coleslaw or a simple garden salad. To make it a full dinner plate, include buttery corn on the cob or baked beans. For kids, cut the tenders into smaller pieces and serve with ketchup.
How-to Summary
In summary: 1) Cut and bake seasoned potato fries until crispy. 2) Dredge seasoned chicken tenders in flour, egg, then seasoned breadcrumbs. 3) Fry in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. 4) Mix simple ingredients for a tangy dipping sauce. 5) Serve everything together immediately while hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying? Yes. For a healthier version, place breaded tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Panko breadcrumbs will give an extra-crispy texture. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked? The safest method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be deep golden brown.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? You can bread the tenders and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined tray, covered, for up to 4 hours before frying. This can help the coating adhere better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wet chicken. Pat it dry thoroughly to ensure the breading sticks.
- Overcrowding the frying pan. This lowers oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy chicken.
- Not seasoning every layer. Season the chicken, the flour, and the breadcrumbs for maximum flavor.
- Cutting fries unevenly. This causes smaller pieces to burn before larger ones are cooked.
- Flipping the chicken too often. Let it fry undisturbed for a few minutes to form a proper crust.
Conclusion
This crispy chicken tenders and fries recipe delivers a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that rivals any restaurant. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and using the provided serving ideas, you can create a perfect homemade version. The process is straightforward, and the result—juicy, flavorful chicken with a crunchy coating paired with hot, crispy fries—is always worth the effort. Enjoy this classic comfort food with your favorite dipping sauces for a truly delicious experience.