Crispy Chicken Tenders with Two Irresistible Dipping Sauces

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Crispy Chicken Tenders with Two Irresistible Dipping Sauces

Craving something crispy, golden, and packed with flavor? These homemade chicken tenders are everything you love about comfort food—juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and perfect for dipping! Paired with two easy, delicious dipping sauces—Honey Mustard and Creamy Ranch—this recipe is great for dinner, game night, or even meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts, cut into strips)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Dipping Sauce Options:

1. Honey Mustard Sauce

  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

2. Creamy Ranch Dip

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and keeps them crispy.

2. Set Up a Breading Station

  • In one bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  • In a second bowl, whisk eggs with water.
  • In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

3. Bread the Tenders

  • Coat each chicken strip in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

4. Fry the Chicken

  • Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Once hot, fry the chicken in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

5. Make the Dipping Sauces

  • Honey Mustard: Whisk together all ingredients until smooth.
  • Creamy Ranch: Stir together all ingredients until well combined.

6. Serve

Serve the chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce and a side of veggies, fries, or salad.

Tips and Variations

  • Baking Option: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and bake tenders for 15–20 minutes, flipping once.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the flour for heat.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this dish allergy-friendly.

These crispy chicken tenders are always a hit! Whether you’re feeding kids, meal prepping, or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.

 

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