Description
Crispy and flavorful Fried Chicken Tenders coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and served with a creamy horseradish dipping sauce. Perfectly golden and juicy, these tenders are quick to prepare and sure to be a family favorite snack or meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups Italian-style seasoned bread crumbs
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 24 chicken tenderloins
- 2 quarts oil for frying
Dipping Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 3 tablespoons prepared mustard
- 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the coating stations: Place the flour in one bowl. In a second bowl, beat the eggs with 2 tablespoons of water. Place the Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs in a third bowl. These stations will make the breading process smooth and efficient.
- Season the chicken: Lightly sprinkle the chicken tenderloins on all sides with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for a mild spicy kick and enhanced flavor.
- Coat the tenders: Dip each chicken tenderloin first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten egg mixture, and finally press gently into the seasoned breadcrumbs ensuring a thorough and even coating.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy deep skillet, heat 2 quarts of oil to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining this temperature is important for crispiness without overcooking.
- Fry until golden: Carefully place the breaded tenders in the hot oil in batches to avoid crowding. Fry for 4–5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Drain excess oil: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the cooked tenders and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil for a crisp finish.
- Mix dipping sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, prepared horseradish, mustard, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until smooth for a tangy and creamy accompaniment.
- Serve hot: Serve the fried chicken tenders immediately with the dipping sauce on the side. They pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw or BBQ ranch dressing for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature remains around 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked tenders.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain consistent temperature and crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature to guarantee food safety.
- For crispier crust, double dredge tenders by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step.
- Leftover chicken tenders can be reheated in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: fried chicken tenders, crispy chicken, breaded chicken, chicken appetizer, homemade chicken tenders
