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Easy Simple Chicken Tenders Kids Love 5 Ingredient Recipe Made Perfect

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A quick and easy chicken tenders recipe using just five simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these tenders are a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or thinly sliced chicken breasts)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or dried herbs

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy coating.
  2. Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  4. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs.
  5. Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. For extra crispiness, double-dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step (optional).
  6. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  7. Carefully place the tenders in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan.
  8. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
  9. Transfer cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and let rest for 1-2 minutes.
  10. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before coating to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy tenders. Medium heat is best to cook chicken through without burning the coating. For a gluten-free version, substitute flour and panko with almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Oven-bake option: 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes on a wire rack, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, kids recipe, quick dinner, crispy chicken, 5 ingredient recipe