Irresistible Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved that perfect bite of crispy chicken that makes your taste buds dance with joy? Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders deliver an irresistible crunch paired with juicy chicken, creating a delightful experience for anyone who takes a bite. The golden crust, seasoned to perfection, promises an explosion of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

I still remember the first time I tasted these chicken tenders at a family gathering. The aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in with its warm, inviting scent. As I took my first bite, the crunch was music to my ears, followed by a tender, flavorful interior that made me smile. These tenders are perfect for game day, family dinners, or even as a fun snack while binge-watching your favorite series. Get ready to impress your guests with this incredibly simple yet delicious recipe.

Key Ingredients For Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Flour: Use all-purpose flour for coating the chicken; it helps create a crispy texture.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add extra crunch to the tenders.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder for the flour and breadcrumb coating.
• Garlic Powder: This seasoning adds rich flavor and enhances the overall taste of the tenders.
• Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder provides depth to the flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your preference.

For the Sauce:

• Hot Sauce: Adds a kick of spice; choose your favorite brand for the best results.
• Butter: Melted butter serves as the base for your sauce, adding richness and helping flavors meld together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step: Prepare Your Chicken

Cut each boneless chicken breast into strips. Season them generously with salt and pepper to ensure they are flavorful throughout.

Third Step: Set Up Breading Station

In one bowl, place flour mixed with garlic powder and onion powder. In another bowl, whisk together eggs. In a third bowl, pour in panko breadcrumbs.

Fourth Step: Coat the Chicken Strips

Dredge each chicken strip in flour first, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip it into the egg mixture before finally rolling it in panko breadcrumbs until well covered.

Fifth Step: Bake the Tenders

Place each coated chicken tender on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Sixth Step: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter and mix in hot sauce until combined. Drizzle this over your freshly baked chicken tenders before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken yields better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Add Variety: Experiment with different spices or herbs in your breadcrumb mixture for unique flavors.
• Bake Instead of Frying: Baking reduces fat while still producing crispy tenders; try not to overcrowd them on the baking sheet.

With these steps and tips in mind, you’re all set to create mouthwatering Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Cooking Method

Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders are easy to make at home. Start by marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures they remain juicy and flavorful. After marination, prepare a seasoned flour mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dip each tender into the seasoned flour, then repeat the process for maximum crunch.

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken tenders, frying them until golden brown and crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders recipe pairs perfectly with various sides and dips. Some delightful options include:

• Homemade Ranch Dressing – A creamy dip that enhances the flavor of your tenders.
• Crispy French Fries – A classic side that complements any chicken dish.
• Fresh Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy texture and balance to your meal.

Storage Tips

To keep your Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Variations

Feel free to customize your Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders! You can spice things up by adding cayenne pepper or using different herbs like oregano or thyme in your flour mixture. For a healthier twist, try baking instead of frying; coat the tenders with olive oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) until they are golden brown.

FAQs:

How can I make my Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

For those who need a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure that all seasonings used are also gluten-free. Follow the same preparation method for marinating and frying to achieve delicious results.

What should I serve with Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders?

These chicken tenders make a delightful main course! Pair them with sides like mashed potatoes, garden salad, or mac and cheese for a hearty meal. You could also offer various dipping sauces such as honey mustard or buffalo sauce to enhance flavors further.

Can I freeze leftover Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders?

Yes! To freeze leftover chicken tenders, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for best quality.

How long do Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders take to cook?

Cooking time for Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders typically ranges from 10-14 minutes total when frying on medium-high heat. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption while maintaining their crispy texture.

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Crispy ‘Crack’ Chicken Tenders

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Crispy “Crack” Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Marinated for juiciness and coated in a flavorful blend of spices, these tenders are baked to golden perfection. Whether for game day snacks or family dinners, this easy recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut chicken breasts into strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare three bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic and onion powder, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in egg, then coat in panko.
5. Place coated tenders on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
6. In a small saucepan, melt butter and mix in hot sauce; drizzle over baked tenders before serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 tenders (150g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken strips in the egg and panko. Experiment with spices like paprika for added flavor. For a healthier option, brush tenders with olive oil instead of butter before baking.