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Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Crispy Crunchy Chicken Tenders You’ll Crave Every Time

These Crunchy Chicken Tenders are a healthier, guilt-free option for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
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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: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins
  • 1 teaspoon Salt omit if chicken is pre-brined
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs for different texture
  • 2 tablespoons Oil or cooking spray as low-calorie substitute
  • 2 large Eggs or flax eggs for vegan option
  • 1 cup Plain Flour or gluten-free flour if needed
For Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder use if you love garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper freshly cracked enhances flavor
For the Batter
  • 1/2 cup Water or milk for enriched flavor

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: Brine Chicken (optional) - Place the chicken tenderloins in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, allow to chill in the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Toast Breadcrumbs - Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Combine panko breadcrumbs with oil, spread on baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.
  3. Step 3: Prepare Batter - Whisk together eggs, water, plain flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and ground black pepper until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Coat Chicken - Dip each tenderloin into the batter and then into the toasted panko breadcrumbs, ensuring each is well-coated.
  5. Step 5: Bake - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place chicken tenders in a single layer, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Serve - Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm with your favorite dips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.2mg

Notes

Brining enhances moisture and flavor; do not exceed 40 minutes to avoid over-salting. Toast breadcrumbs for added crunch. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

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