Enjoy the perfect crunch with these irresistible homemade chicken tenders. Juicy and tender on the inside, with a golden, crispy coating on the outside, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
1 lb (500 g) chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
3 large egg yolks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups panko breadcrumbs or seasoned fine breadcrumbs
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying (or olive oil spray for baking)
Instructions
Prepare the chicken:
Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Set up breading station:
Place flour in one bowl.
In a second bowl, whisk the egg yolks with a splash of water.
In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Coat the chicken:
Dip each piece into flour, then egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently.
Rest (optional):
Let the coated chicken rest on a rack for 10 minutes to help the coating stick during cooking.
How to Cook
Deep Fry Method:
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
Air Fryer Method:
Lightly spray with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Oven Baked Method:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake on a lined tray for 15–20 minutes until crispy and golden.
Variations
Spicy Version:
Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
Parmesan Crust:
Mix 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs.
Keto Option:
Use almond flour instead of regular flour and replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or parmesan.
Tips
Avoid overcrowding:
Cook in batches to keep the tenders crispy.
Use room temperature eggs:
They coat the chicken more evenly.
Control oil temperature:
Too low = greasy chicken, too high = burnt outside.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fat: 12 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Healthy Benefits
High in protein:
Supports muscle growth and repair.
Rich in nutrients:
Egg yolks provide essential vitamins like D and B12.
Better than processed food:
Homemade means fewer preservatives and controlled ingredients.
Conclusion
Making crispy chicken tenders at home is simple, delicious, and healthier than takeout. With the right ingredients and technique, you’ll get perfectly golden, crunchy chicken every time—perfect for family meals or quick dinners.