How to Make Classic Chicken Tenders and Fries in 5 Easy Steps

Introduction

There’s something magical about biting into perfectly crispy chicken tenders and fries. This iconic duo has earned its place as a comfort food staple, bringing smiles to faces across dinner tables everywhere. From busy weeknight dinners to casual weekend gatherings, classic chicken tenders and fries deliver that satisfying crunch and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

You’ll find this beloved combination on menus from high-end restaurants to local diners, proving its universal appeal. Kids reach for these golden strips with excitement, while adults secretly (or not so secretly) share the same enthusiasm. The beauty lies in its simplicity – tender chicken strips coated in crispy breading, paired with hot, crispy fries.

Mastering your own classic chicken tenders and fries recipe opens up a world of possibilities. You can customize seasonings, experiment with cooking methods, and create your signature dipping sauces. Ready to create the best chicken tenders and fries right in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide that will help you perfect this timeless favorite.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Tenders

The foundation of perfect chicken tenders lies in selecting high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Look for fresh, pink-colored meat without any gray spots or strong odors. Cut the breasts into uniform strips approximately 1.5 inches wide and 5 inches long to ensure even cooking.

Marination Magic

A buttermilk bath transforms ordinary chicken into tender, flavorful bites. Mix 2 cups of buttermilk with:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Submerge your chicken strips in this mixture for 2-4 hours, or ideally overnight. The lactic acid in buttermilk breaks down proteins, creating incredibly juicy tenders while adding subtle tanginess to the meat.

Creating the Perfect Coating

Your coating station needs three separate containers:

• Seasoned flour mixture: Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour with:

• 1 tablespoon Italiawn seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

• Egg wash: Beat 3 eggs with 1/4 cup water
• Second flour mixture: Reserve half of your seasoned flour mixture

The double-coating process creates an extra-crispy exterior:

• Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off
• Dredge in first flour mixture
• Dip in egg wash
• Coat with second flour mixture
• Place on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes to set coating

Pro tip: Keep one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry to prevent coating your fingers instead of the chicken.

For more seasoning inspiration, check out our guide on making Dry Rub Chicken Wings that are irresistibly delicious and easy to prepare.

Step 2: Cooking Techniques for Chicken Tenders

You have three excellent methods to cook your prepared chicken tenders – each offering unique benefits and flavors.

Classic Deep Frying Method

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 365-375°F (185-190°C)
• Test oil temperature by dropping a small piece of breading – it should sizzle immediately
• Place 3-4 tenders at a time to maintain oil temperature
• Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown
• Place on paper towels to drain excess oil

Oven-Baked Alternative

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
• Mix 1 cup herb stuffing mix with ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Coat prepared tenders in this mixture instead of regular breading
• Place on a lined baking sheet
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through
• Look for a golden-brown color and internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)

Air Fryer Option

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
• Spray basket with cooking oil
• Place tenders in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding
• Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway
• No additional oil needed beyond the initial spray

The air fryer method reduces fat content by up to 70% compared to deep frying while maintaining a crispy exterior. Baking with herb stuffing creates a unique, aromatic crust with minimal oil. Traditional frying delivers that classic golden-brown color and satisfying crunch many love.

Pro Tip: Regardless of cooking method, let your tenders rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Preparing the Fries

Creating perfectly crispy fries starts with selecting the right potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes offer an ideal balance of starch and moisture, resulting in fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. These potatoes maintain their shape during cooking and develop a beautiful golden color.

Here’s your guide to preparing restaurant-quality fries:

1. Cutting Technique

• Wash and peel the potatoes (leaving the skin on is optional)
• Cut each potato lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
• Stack these slices and cut them into strips of equal width
• Aim for uniform size (about 1/4 inch x 1/4 inch) for even cooking

2. The Soaking Process

• Place cut potatoes in a bowl of hot water
• Let them soak for 10-15 minutes
• This step removes excess starch and prevents the fries from sticking together
• Drain and pat the fries completely dry with paper towels

3. Seasoning Your Fries

• Toss dried fries with olive oil until evenly coated
• Add your preferred seasonings:
• Classic: Salt and black pepper
• Garlic parmesan: Garlic powder, grated parmesan, dried parsley
• Spicy: Cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder
• Ranch style: Ranch seasoning mix

4. Baking Instructions

To achieve that perfect crispy texture, it’s essential to follow certain baking instructions. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding to ensure proper crisping. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through cooking. Continue baking until golden brown and crispy.

However, if you want to take your fry game to the next level, consider using cold oil as it can significantly improve their texture.

The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in spacing your fries properly on the baking sheet. Each fry needs room to release steam and develop that coveted crispy exterior. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden brown and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.

If you’re looking for more tips on achieving the perfect crispiness, don’t miss our Crinkle Fries Hack for ultimate results every time.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Your chicken tenders and fries deserve a presentation that matches their delicious taste. Here’s how to elevate this classic dish from good to extraordinary:

Essential Dipping Sauces

• Classic Ranch: Mix mayo, sour cream, herbs, and garlic for a creamy dip
• Honey Mustard: Blend yellow mustard with honey and a touch of apple cider vinegar
• Spicy Chipotle Mayo: Combine mayo with adobo sauce and lime juice
• BBQ Sauce: Choose between sweet, tangy, or smoky varieties
• Garlic Aioli: Create a rich blend of mayo, fresh garlic, and lemon juice

Plating Tips for Visual Appeal

• Use a lined basket or kraft paper for a casual restaurant feel
• Place tenders and fries in separate sections on the plate
• Add colorful garnishes like fresh parsley or microgreens
• Serve dipping sauces in small ramekins arranged in a semi-circle

Creative Serving Ideas

• Tender Sliders: Cut tenders in half, place on mini buns with lettuce and tomato
• Loaded Fries: Top fries with shredded tender pieces, cheese, and bacon bits
• Wrap It Up: Roll tenders in tortillas with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce
• Tender Salad: Slice tenders and serve over mixed greens with crispy fries as croutons
• DIY Dipping Station: Set up multiple sauces for a fun, interactive dining experience

Kid-Friendly Presentations

• Create faces using the tenders and fries
• Arrange food in fun shapes like stars or hearts
• Use colorful dipping cups to make the meal more engaging

For a unique twist on dipping sauces, try our Polynesian Sauce recipe that’s mouthwatering and pairs perfectly with chicken tenders and fries.

Step 5: Storing Leftovers Properly

Proper storage of leftover chicken tenders and fries ensures you can enjoy them later without compromising taste or texture. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and delicious:

Storage Guidelines:

• Place chicken tenders in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper
• Store fries in a separate container to prevent them from becoming soggy, following these guidelines
• Keep both items refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality

Reheating Methods for Chicken Tenders:

• Oven: 375°F for 10 minutes
• Air fryer: 350°F for 3-4 minutes
• Avoid microwave reheating – it makes the coating soft
• For a detailed guide on reheating chicken tenders, check this resource.

Reheating Methods for Fries:

• Spread fries on a baking sheet
• Heat at 400°F for 5-7 minutes
• Toss halfway through for even crisping
• Add a light sprinkle of salt after reheating

Pro Tip: Let refrigerated items reach room temperature for 10 minutes before reheating. This helps achieve even heating and maintains the crispy texture you worked hard to create.

Conclusion

Making homemade chicken tenders and fries adds a special touch to your dining experience. This timeless combination has always been loved by both kids and adults for its delicious crunch and flavor. Now, you have the skills to make this favorite dish from scratch – a talent that will benefit you for many years.

Bring your family together at the table, and see their faces light up when you serve them your perfectly crispy chicken tenders and golden fries. The happiness of sharing this meal creates unforgettable moments. Your homemade version is more than just a meal – it’s a representation of the affection and effort you invested in cooking for your family.

Excited to begin your culinary adventure? Your kitchen is ready for you!

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Classic Chicken Tenders and Fries

Emily

Master the classic chicken tenders and fries with our step-by-step guide for crispy perfection and delicious dipping sauces.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

  

Chicken:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts

Marinade:

• Buttermilk
• garlic powder
• paprika
• black pepper
• salt

Coating:

• All-purpose flour
• Italian seasoning
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• eggs
• water
• Optional Coating Additions:
• Herb stuffing mix
• parmesan cheese

Fries Ingredients:

• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes

Seasonings:

• Olive oil
• salt
• black pepper
• optional spices garlic powder, parmesan, parsley, cayenne, paprika, ranch mix

Dipping Sauces:

• Ranch
• honey mustard
• BBQ
• chipotle mayo
• garlic aioli

Instructions

 

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Tenders

• Cut Chicken: Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut into uniform strips (1.5 inches wide, 5 inches long).
• Marinate: Mix buttermilk with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Submerge chicken strips and marinate for 2-4 hours (or overnight).
• Coating Station Setup:
• Seasoned Flour Mixture: Combine flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Egg Wash: Beat eggs with water.
• Second Flour Layer: Reserve half of the seasoned flour mixture.
• Double Coating Process:
• Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg wash, then coat again in flour.
• Place coated chicken on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes to set.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken Tenders

• Choose one of the following methods:
• Deep Fry:
• Heat oil to 365-375°F (185-190°C).
• Fry 3-4 tenders at a time for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Drain on paper towels.
• Bake:
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Coat tenders with herb stuffing mix and parmesan.
• Bake on a lined sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fry:
• Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Spray basket with oil, place tenders in a single layer.
• Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 3: Preparing the Fries

• Cut Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut into ¼-inch thick strips for even cooking.
• Soak: Place cut fries in hot water for 10-15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
• Season: Toss fries with olive oil and your choice of seasonings (e.g., salt, garlic powder, paprika, or ranch mix).
• Bake:
• Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
• Arrange fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Prepare classic ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli.
• Plating: Serve tenders and fries in separate sections. Add garnishes like parsley or microgreens.
• Creative Ideas:
• Make sliders, loaded fries, wraps, or salads.
• Set up a DIY dipping station with multiple sauces.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550 kcal
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	4g
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	2g
Sodium	800mg

Keyword Chicken Tenders, Fries, Comfort Food, Family Dinner

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)