Introduction
Chicken tenders and fries are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, juicy, and satisfying in every bite! This dish is a favorite for kids and adults alike, perfect for family dinners, game days, or anytime you’re craving a classic, hearty meal. What’s better? You can easily make restaurant-quality chicken tenders and fries right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients. This recipe combines the crunch of golden-fried chicken tenders with crispy, homemade fries for a meal that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: A surefire hit with both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning, breading, or pair it with your favorite dipping sauces to make it your own.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward ingredients and simple techniques mean anyone can master this recipe.
- Perfectly Crispy: Achieve that irresistible crunch with tips to ensure golden perfection every time.
- Budget-Friendly: Enjoy a restaurant-style meal without breaking the bank.
Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a fun party platter, these chicken tenders and fries will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Key Ingredients for Crispy chicken tenders and fries
Chicken Tenders
- Chicken Breast Strips: Tender and lean, these are the perfect cut for juicy tenders. Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs if desired.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base for the breading, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the breading.
- Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper add flavor to the coating.
- Eggs: Help the breading stick to the chicken.
- Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs for a more traditional coating.
Fries
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for fries due to their high starch content, which makes them crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
- Oil: Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying.
- Seasoning: Salt and any additional spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Quick Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 550
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For the Fries
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions for These Crispy chicken tenders and fries
Prepare the Chicken
- Trim and Cut the Chicken: Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Slice the breasts into uniform strips, about 1 inch wide. Uniformity ensures even cooking, so all tenders are done at the same time.
- Set Up a Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoned mixture is the first layer of coating, which helps lock in moisture.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs until fully blended. This acts as the “glue” for the breadcrumbs.
- In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt or a little grated parmesan cheese.
Bread the Chicken
- First Layer: Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour mixture. Ensure every part of the chicken is covered evenly. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping.
- Egg Wash: Dip the floured chicken strip into the beaten eggs, making sure the entire strip is coated. Lift it out, letting the excess egg drip off.
- Breadcrumb Coating: Roll the chicken strip in panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they stick well, creating a thicker, crunchier coating.
Prepare the Fries
- Slice the Potatoes: Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt. Peel them if desired, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients. Cut them into evenly-sized strips—about ¼ inch thick.
- Soak in Water: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. Soaking removes excess starch, preventing the fries from sticking together and helping them become crispier when fried.
- Dry Thoroughly: Drain the potatoes and spread them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them completely dry to avoid splattering during frying.
Fry the Chicken and Fries
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet, frying pan, or deep fryer. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy—if the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken cooks; too cold, and the breading will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid crowding the pan. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy tenders.
- Fry each strip for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use tongs to turn them gently.
- Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a tender—it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Fry the Potatoes:
- For best results, fry the potatoes twice. First, fry them at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes, just until they start to soften and turn pale. Remove and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes again for 2–3 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and season immediately with salt for maximum flavor absorption.
Variations
- Air-Fryer Option: For a healthier alternative, air-fry the chicken tenders and fries. If you’re a fan of air-fried meals, try these Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for spicy chicken tenders.
- Seasoned Fries: Toss the fries in a blend of garlic powder, paprika, and parsley for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ketchup, honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for balance.
- Beverages: Lemonade, iced tea, or a fizzy soda make great drink pairings.
Tips for the Best Crispy chicken tenders and fries
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Fries
Choose the Right Oil
- Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can impart unwanted flavors.
- For maximum crispiness, ensure the oil temperature stays consistent. Use a thermometer to monitor it.
Soak the Fries for Extra Crispiness
- The longer you soak the potatoes in cold water, the better. Soaking for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) removes starch, which can make fries soggy during cooking.
- Add ice cubes to the water if soaking for a longer time to keep it extra cold.
If you love crispy textures, explore other recipes like Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole for more crispy potato inspirations.
Double Fry the Fries
- The first fry at a lower temperature cooks the potatoes and makes them tender inside. The second fry at a higher temperature crisps the outside for that perfect golden crunch.
Season Fries Immediately
- Salt fries right after removing them from the oil. This ensures the salt sticks better while the fries are still hot and slightly oily.
Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Tenders
For Crispy Chicken Coating
- Mixing cornstarch with flour makes the coating extra crispy.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, airier crunch.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan
- When frying chicken or fries, only cook a few pieces at a time. Overcrowding reduces the oil temperature, leading to soggy, greasy food.
- Keep cooked batches warm by placing them on a wire rack in an oven set to 200°F (95°C) until all batches are finished.
Keep the Coating Crisp
- Let the breaded chicken strips rest for 10–15 minutes before frying. This allows the coating to adhere better and crisp up nicely during frying.
- If baking or air frying, spray the chicken lightly with cooking oil before cooking to promote even browning.
Check for Doneness
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption. Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat.
Dipping Sauces
- Pair chicken tenders with a variety of sauces to elevate the meal. Popular options include ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or even a spicy aioli.
- If making sauces at home, prepare them ahead of time to save effort.
Let the breaded chicken strips rest before frying. For another golden-breaded favorite, try Chicken Parmesan Sandwich.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat chicken tenders and fries in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Freeze for Later
- To freeze, bread the chicken but do not fry it. Arrange the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying or baking time.
Air Fryer Option
- If air frying, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the basket and chicken with a light layer of oil to prevent sticking and promote browning. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, flipping halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Benefits of This Crispy chicken tenders and fries
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
- Versatile: Great as a meal, snack, or appetizer.
- Easy to Customize: Make it spicy, gluten-free, or even baked based on your preferences.
- Restaurant-Quality: Achieve crispy chicken and golden fries at home, saving time and money.
FAQS
Are Chicken Tenders and Fries Unhealthy?
Chicken tenders and fries can be unhealthy depending on how they are prepared and consumed. Here’s why:
1. High in Calories:
- Fried chicken tenders and fries are typically high in calories due to the breading and deep-frying process.
- The oil used in frying adds extra fat, which increases the calorie count.
2. High in Fat:
- Fried foods contain unhealthy trans fats and saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.
3. High Sodium Content:
- Many fast-food versions of chicken tenders and fries are seasoned with salt, leading to a high sodium content that can impact blood pressure.
4. Nutritional Gaps:
- These foods lack essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Healthier Options:
- Opt for baked or air-fried chicken tenders and fries instead of deep-fried versions.
- Use whole-grain breadcrumbs and cook with minimal added oil to reduce calories and fat.
- Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to add more nutrients to your meal.
Can You Air Fry Chicken Tenders and French Fries at the Same Time?
Yes, you can air fry chicken tenders and french fries at the same time if you manage the space and temperature correctly.
How to Air Fry Them Together:
- Use a Divided Basket:
- If your air fryer has a divided basket, you can separate the tenders and fries for even cooking.
- Similar Cooking Times:
- Both chicken tenders and fries typically cook at 375°F to 400°F for about 15–20 minutes. Check specific recipes to ensure matching cook times.
- Stir Midway:
- Shake or flip the food halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
- Avoid Overcrowding:
- Leave space between the items to allow hot air to circulate for crispier results.
- Season Separately:
- Season the chicken and fries separately for better flavor.
Using an air fryer for chicken tenders and fries is a healthier alternative, as it requires little to no oil while still achieving a crispy texture.
Why Did McDonald’s Stop Selling Chicken Tenders?
McDonald’s stopped selling chicken tenders due to several reasons:
1. Supply Chain Challenges:
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions affected the availability of key ingredients, including chicken tenders.
2. Focus on Core Menu Items:
- McDonald’s streamlined its menu to focus on high-demand items like burgers, fries, and McNuggets, which are more profitable and faster to prepare.
3. Changing Consumer Preferences:
- The demand for healthier and more diverse menu options influenced McDonald’s to prioritize other products.
While chicken tenders may no longer be available, McDonald’s continues to offer alternatives like Chicken McNuggets and limited-time chicken items.
What Is the Difference Between Chicken Tenders and Chicken Tenderloins?
Chicken tenders and chicken tenderloins are related but not exactly the same.
1. Chicken Tenderloins:
- The tenderloin is a specific muscle found underneath the breast of the chicken.
- It is long, thin, and naturally tender, which is why it’s called a tenderloin.
2. Chicken Tenders:
- Chicken tenders are often made using the tenderloin but may also refer to breaded and fried chicken strips made from other parts of the breast.
- Tenders are typically seasoned, breaded, and cooked, while tenderloins are a raw cut of meat.
Key Difference:
- The term “chicken tenders” often describes the prepared dish, while “chicken tenderloins” refer to the raw, specific cut of meat.
Is It OK to Eat Chicken Tenders on a Diet?
Yes, you can eat chicken tenders on a diet if you choose healthier preparation methods and control portion sizes.
Tips for Including Chicken Tenders in Your Diet:
- Opt for Baked or Air-Fried Versions:
- Avoid deep-fried chicken tenders to reduce fat and calorie content.
- Use Whole-Grain Breading:
- Substitute white flour with whole-grain breadcrumbs for more fiber.
- Choose Lean Cuts:
- Use skinless chicken tenderloins for lower fat content.
- Control Portions:
- Stick to a moderate serving size (3–4 tenders) to avoid overeating.
- Pair with Healthy Sides:
- Combine with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or whole-grain sides for a balanced meal.
- Limit Sauces:
- Avoid high-calorie dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard. Instead, try low-calorie options like Greek yogurt-based dips.
Chicken tenders can be part of a healthy diet when prepared mindfully and consumed in moderation.
Conclusion
This homemade chicken tenders and fries recipe is the ultimate combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, it’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Looking for more comforting recipes? Check out Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for another hearty dish.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!