Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries
This Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries recipe is the ultimate comfort food combo that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or family gatherings. With juicy, golden chicken tenders and perfectly seasoned fries, this dish is kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and easy to customize. Whether you bake, air fry, or pan-fry, you’ll love the crispy texture and irresistible flavor!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder (optional, for added flavor)
- Cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying)
- For the Crispy Fries
- 4 medium russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for a creamier texture)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- For the Dipping Sauces
- Classic ketchup
- Creamy ranch dressing
- Tangy honey mustard (mix 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp mayo)
- Spicy BBQ sauce
- Garlic aioli (mix ½ cup mayo, 1 minced garlic clove, and a squeeze of lemon juice)
- Optional Substitutions and Add-Ons
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Healthier option: Bake or air fry the chicken tenders and fries instead of deep-frying.
- Spicy twist: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Extra flavor: Toss the fries with grated Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley after cooking.
- For Serving
- Dipping sauces (ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken TendersSet up a breading station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings.Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.Let the breaded tenders rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Make the FriesCut potatoes into ¼-inch sticks and soak in cold water for 30 minutes.Drain, pat dry, and toss with olive oil and seasonings.Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken TendersPan-fry in oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.For air frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- ServeArrange the crispy chicken tenders and golden fries on a platter.Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
Notes
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g