Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce
If you love golden, crunchy chicken with a juicy inside, these Crispy Chicken Tenders are perfect! They’re easy to make and taste just like restaurant-style chicken strips. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ cup milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. If using chicken breasts, slice them into long strips.
Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Eggs and milk whisked together.
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs (add a pinch of salt and Italian seasoning if desired).
Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture.
- Dip it into the egg mixture.
- Coat it in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so they stick well.
Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
(Optional: You can also bake them at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.)
Make the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, honey, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with the dipping sauce. They also pair great with:
- French fries
- Coleslaw
- Mashed potatoes
- Fresh salad
Tip: For extra crispy tenders, double-coat the chicken by dipping it again in the egg and breadcrumbs before frying.