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Top-down look at golden breaded chicken tenders arranged in a row, with panko coating visible.

Easy Simple Chicken Tenders Kids Love 5 Ingredient Recipe

Crispy chicken tenders coated in seasoned flour, egg, and panko, then pan-fried until golden. A simple 5-ingredient recipe kids love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or thinly sliced chicken breasts)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour 120g
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or dried herbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 100g
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Method
 

  1. Dry Chicken Tenders:

    Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chicken tenders, promoting a crunchy crust.

  2. Set Up Breading Station:

    Arrange three shallow dishes: one containing flour whisked with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (plus optional paprika or herbs); one with whisked eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.

  3. Coat in Seasoned Flour:

    Coat each tender in the seasoned flour, tapping off any surplus.

  4. Dip in Beaten Eggs:

    Submerge the floured chicken in the beaten eggs.

  5. Press into Panko Crumbs:

    Firmly press the chicken into panko breadcrumbs so it is entirely covered. For added crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating (optional).

  6. Heat Oil in Skillet:

    Pour vegetable oil to a depth of roughly 1/4 inch in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers but does not smoke.

  7. Add Tenders to Oil:

    Gently lower the tenders into the hot oil, leaving space between each piece.

  8. Fry Until Golden Brown:

    Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F (75°C)/74°C). Adjust the heat if needed to avoid burning.

  9. Drain on Paper Towels:

    Move the finished tenders to a paper-towel-lined plate to absorb extra oil, then let them sit for 1-2 minutes.

  10. Serve with Dipping Sauces:

    Present warm alongside preferred dipping sauces.