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.
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
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
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.
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