How to Make American Chicken Tenders from Scratch

Introduction

Craving crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the processed ingredients? You’ve come to the right place! Making American chicken tenders from scratch is surprisingly easy and allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful meal. This guide will walk you through each step, from preparing the chicken to achieving that perfect golden-brown crisp.

Making American Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Guide

Choosing Your Chicken

The key to great chicken tenders starts with high-quality chicken. Here’s what to look for:

• Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Freshness: Ensure the chicken is fresh and doesn’t have an off-putting odor.
• Organic/Free-Range (Optional): Consider organic or free-range chicken for a potentially better flavor and ethical sourcing.

Preparing the Chicken

Properly preparing the chicken is crucial for even cooking and tender results.

1. Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips, about 1-inch thick. Aim for uniform size for consistent cooking.
2. Pounding (Optional): Lightly pound the chicken strips to tenderize them further and ensure even thickness. This step isn’t necessary but can improve the tenderness. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap before pounding.
3. Marinating (Optional): Marinating the chicken in buttermilk, yogurt, or a simple brine can add flavor and moisture. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

Creating the Breading Station

A well-organized breading station is essential for a smooth and efficient process. Prepare three shallow dishes:

1. Dish 1: Flour Mixture: Combine all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and any other desired spices (cayenne pepper for a kick!).
2. Dish 2: Egg Wash: Whisk eggs with a splash of milk or water.
3. Dish 3: Breadcrumb Mixture: Combine panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness) or regular breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese (optional) and any remaining spices from the flour mixture.

The Breading Process

This is where the magic happens! Here’s how to properly coat your chicken tenders:

1. Flour Coating: Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Egg Wash: Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s completely submerged. Allow excess egg to drip off.
3. Breadcrumb Coating: Coat the chicken generously with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well.
4. Resting (Optional): Place the breaded chicken tenders on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This allows the breading to set and helps prevent it from falling off during cooking.

Cooking Methods: Frying, Baking, and Air Frying

Choose your preferred cooking method:

Frying (Classic Crispy Tenders)

• Heat Oil: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a thermometer for accurate temperature.
• Fry in Batches: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
• Drain: Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Baking (Healthier Option)

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
• Bake: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Air Frying (Quick and Crispy)

• Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Air Fry: Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your homemade chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces!

• Classic Dips: Ketchup, honey mustard, ranch dressing.
• Spicy Options: Sriracha mayo, buffalo sauce.
• Other Ideas: BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce.

Serve them as an appetizer, in wraps, or as part of a complete meal with sides like french fries, coleslaw, or mac and cheese.

Conclusion

Making American chicken tenders from scratch might seem daunting, but with this guide, you’ll be enjoying delicious, homemade tenders in no time! Experiment with different spices and dipping sauces to create your own signature version. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your food and the delicious flavor of freshly made chicken tenders!