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Crispy chicken tenders and fries served on a rustic wooden board with dipping sauces and fresh herbs.

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
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
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