Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Description

Crispy, juicy, and golden-brown, these Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce are a family favorite perfect for snacks, lunch, or dinner. Made with tender strips of chicken breast coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and served with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce, they are quick to prepare and sure to satisfy both kids and adults.

Ingredients for Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or sunflower)

For Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

Instructions

1. Prepare Coating Stations

   • In one bowl: flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

   • In another bowl: beaten eggs.

   • In a third bowl: breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.

2. Coat the Chicken

   • Dredge chicken strips in the flour mixture, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

   • Press lightly so the coating sticks.

3. Cook the Tenders

   • Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Fry chicken tenders for 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through (internal temp: 75°C / 165°F).

   • Drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Dipping Sauce

   • Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, lemon juice, and paprika/cayenne in a small bowl.

   • Stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Serve

   • Arrange tenders on a plate with dipping sauce on the side.

   • Best served hot.

Notes

• You can bake them instead of frying: 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

• For extra crispiness, double-coat in egg and breadcrumbs.

• Use chicken tenderloins for an even juicier bite.

Tips

• Pat chicken dry before coating to help the breading stick better.

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to breadcrumbs for flavor variation.

• Make ahead: Coat chicken, refrigerate up to 4 hours, then cook when ready.

Servings

• Makes 4 servings (about 3–4 tenders per person).

Nutritional Info (per serving, fried version)

• Calories: ~350 kcal

• Protein: 28 g

• Carbohydrates: 20 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sodium: 500 mg
  (Values may vary based on ingredients and cooking method.)

Benefits

• High in protein – helps build and repair muscles.

• Customizable – works with different seasonings and sauces.

• Kid-friendly – loved by picky eaters.

• Versatile – great for meal prep, picnics, or parties.

Q&A

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Q: Can I air fry instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Q: What other sauces pair well with chicken tenders?
A: Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or sweet chili sauce.