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Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Crunchy Chicken Tenders That Are Healthier and Super Easy

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Enjoy these crunchy chicken tenders that are healthier, featuring a crispy coating and tender meat, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Brining Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 32 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins
  • 1.5-3 tsp Salt to taste
For the Crunchy Coating
  • 2.5 cups Panko Breadcrumbs toasted
  • 2 tbsp Oil for toasting breadcrumbs
For the Batter
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 2 tbsp Water can swap with milk for richness
  • 0.5 cups Plain Flour can substitute gluten-free flour
For Flavor
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder optional
  • 0.25 tsp Ground Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Dry Brine the Chicken: Place chicken tenderloins in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, cover, and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Toast Breadcrumbs: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix panko breadcrumbs with oil, spread on a baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Mix Batter: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, water, flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and lump-free.
  4. Bread Chicken: Dip chicken tenderloins in the batter, then dredge in the toasted breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.
  5. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Optional Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook tenders in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 18gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 25mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, limit brining time and ensure breadcrumbs are toasted for maximum crunch. Experiment with spices for personalized flavor.

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