Savory Chicken Tenders
Highlighted under: No-Fuss Kitchen Dishes
I absolutely love creating dishes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. These savory chicken tenders are a go-to recipe in my house because they hit the spot every time. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking method, they are perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering. The combination of spices and a crispy coating elevates simple chicken into a flavorful meal that everyone enjoys. Trust me, once you try these tenders, it'll be hard to go back to store-bought!
When I first experimented with these chicken tenders, the goal was to find a way to make something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. I decided to marinate the chicken in a mix of spices and buttermilk, which not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with incredible flavor. This method really enhances each bite, making it a family favorite!
I also found that dredging the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs gives it that irresistible crunch. The key is to bake them instead of frying, which keeps the tenders lighter yet maintains the crispy texture. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and you have a winning dish!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken with an irresistible crunch
- Quick preparation and cooking time
- Perfectly seasoned for a burst of flavor
Marinating Magic
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is the key to achieving juicy tenders. The acidity in buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat, creating a more flavorful and moist texture. Make sure to coat the chicken strips thoroughly; consider marinating them overnight for an even more profound taste. If you're short on time, at least 30 minutes will suffice, but the longer you can let them soak, the better the flavors will penetrate.
In addition to the garlic and onion powder, feel free to experiment with other spices in your marinade. A pinch of cayenne can add a subtle heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish further. Always taste your marinade before adding the chicken; it should be well-seasoned, as the chicken will absorb those flavors.
Getting that Perfect Crunch
Panko breadcrumbs play a vital role in achieving that desired crunch. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko has a lighter, flakier texture that results in a crispier coating when baked. When coating the chicken, don’t be afraid to press the panko onto the surface firmly; this helps it adhere better, ensuring you get that crunchy outer layer your taste buds crave.
To save on cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It not only prevents sticking but also ensures even cooking. If you find that your tenders are browning too quickly, don’t hesitate to cover them loosely with aluminum foil for part of the baking process to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
These savory chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic ranch or honey mustard complements the flavors beautifully, but you can also opt for something bolder, like a chipotle mayo for an extra kick. If you're serving these at a gathering, consider offering a selection of sauces to cater to different tastes.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Freezing is also a great option; just flash freeze them on a baking sheet and transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. For even convenience, double the recipe and freeze the leftover tenders for a quick meal on busy nights.
Ingredients
Savory Chicken Tenders Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Gather these ingredients, and let's get started!
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Coating
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a plate, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off.
Dredge the Chicken
Coat each chicken strip in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway.
Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your delicious savory chicken tenders!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also substitute the buttermilk with plain yogurt for a thicker coating.
Ingredient Insights
This recipe's use of panko breadcrumbs is essential for that delightful crunch. Panko is coarser and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, allowing it to crisp up more effectively in the oven. Should you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free panko, or you can even pulse GF cornflakes for a similar texture. The right seasoning mix here can elevate plain chicken, so don’t shy away from customizing these spices as per your palate.
When choosing chicken breasts, aim for high-quality, organic options if possible. They tend to be more flavorful and tender. If you're looking for a leaner option, chicken tenders or thighs can also work well; just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Baking Tips
Achieving that perfect golden brown color is crucial. No one wants a pale, soggy tender! Keep an eye on your tenders during the last few minutes of baking. You want to remove them once they are golden with crispy edges, which typically occurs around the 20-minute mark in the oven. A food thermometer can also be your best friend here; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Rotate your baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure an even cook. This also prevents any spots from getting overly browned. If you see some uneven coloring, a simple re-flip of the tenders can rectify this.
Creative Variations
While the classic method of baking these chicken tenders is fantastic, you can also experiment with air frying for an extra crispy option while using less oil! If you're using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness.
For a fun twist, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to your panko breadcrumb mix for added flavor and texture. You can also infuse different spices like cumin or Italian seasoning into the breading for a unique touch. The beauty of these tenders lies in their versatility, so feel free to get creative!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It's best to use fresh chicken, but if you only have frozen, ensure it is completely thawed before marinating.
→ What can I serve with chicken tenders?
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a side salad, fries, or your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
→ Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat them earlier in the day. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
→ Is it okay to fry these chicken tenders instead of baking?
Absolutely! If you prefer a fried version, heat oil in a pan and fry until golden. Just be mindful of the additional calories.
Savory Chicken Tenders
I absolutely love creating dishes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. These savory chicken tenders are a go-to recipe in my house because they hit the spot every time. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking method, they are perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering. The combination of spices and a crispy coating elevates simple chicken into a flavorful meal that everyone enjoys. Trust me, once you try these tenders, it'll be hard to go back to store-bought!
What You'll Need
Savory Chicken Tenders Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a plate, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off.
Coat each chicken strip in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also substitute the buttermilk with plain yogurt for a thicker coating.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 28g