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Chicken Tenders Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade tenders with a crispy, golden coating in just 20 minutes using simple ingredients and easy steps.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste for both flour and breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray or oil for cooking

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. If using chicken breasts, cut into strips or pound to about ½ inch thickness for even cooking.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
  1. Prepare 3 bowls in an assembly line:
  2. Bowl 1: flour + salt + pepper
  3. Bowl 2: eggs + water (whisked)
  4. Bowl 3: panko breadcrumbs + garlic powder + paprika + salt + pepper
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
  1. Dip each chicken piece into flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so coating sticks well.

Notes

  • Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest texture
  • Do not overcrowd during cooking
  • Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)
  • Let chicken rest 2–3 minutes before serving