Craving a meal that’s crispy, flavorful, and loved by all ages? These chicken tenders and fries are sure to hit the spot! Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness. Made with tender chicken breast strips coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and paired with perfectly crispy homemade fries, it’s a combination you won’t be able to resist. Plus, they’re easy to make and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces. Ready to learn the secret to irresistibly crispy chicken tenders? Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
Why do we all love chicken tenders and fries? Besides being irresistibly crispy and flavorful, they’re incredibly versatile and easy to make at home. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or planning a fun family meal, these homemade chicken tenders deliver restaurant-quality crunch with the comfort of home cooking.
Plus, you get full control over the ingredients, making them a healthier option compared to fast food. By baking or air frying, you can cut down on excess oil without sacrificing that golden, crunchy exterior. And let’s not forget the fun of pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces—whether it’s classic ketchup, tangy honey mustard, or a creamy ranch dip.
Best of all, this recipe is kid-friendly and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So, get ready to impress your family with chicken tenders and fries everyone will love!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible chicken tenders and fries:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken breast strips – Tender and juicy, perfect for crispy coating.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – For that extra crunch you love.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps the coating stick better.
- 2 large eggs (beaten) – The secret to a crispy, golden exterior.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season every layer perfectly.
For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes – Ideal for making crispy fries.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – To achieve that golden, crunchy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt – For perfectly seasoned fries.
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional) – For a little extra kick.
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch – Choose your favorite!
These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a delicious, homemade version of the classic chicken tenders and fries combo. Ready to get started? Let’s make it happen!
How to Make Chicken Tenders and Fries
Now that we have all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps for perfectly crispy chicken tenders and golden fries that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and Cut the Potatoes – Begin by peeling the russet potatoes and slicing them into even, thin strips. This ensures that each fry cooks uniformly and gets crispy on all sides.
- Soak the Fries – Place the potato strips in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking helps remove excess starch, which results in a crispier texture when baked or fried.
- Dry the Fries – Once they’re done soaking, pat the fries dry using a clean towel. The drier the fries, the better their crunch!
Step 2: Season and Cook the Fries
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning – Drizzle olive oil over the fries, ensuring they’re well-coated. Then, sprinkle with salt and optional paprika for a pop of flavor.
- Bake or Air Fry:
- For Baked Fries: Spread the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures they crisp up evenly.
- For Air-Fried Fries: Place the fries in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crisping.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- Set Up Your Breading Station – This step makes all the difference for that golden coating!
- Bowl 1: Combine flour with salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs with paprika and garlic powder.
- Coat the Chicken – Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders
- Bake or Air Fry:
- For Baked Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken strips on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
- For Air-Fried Chicken Tenders: Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping once to ensure they’re perfectly crispy on both sides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken tenders and fries are golden brown and crispy, it’s time to serve them up! Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce, and enjoy the delicious crunch in every bite.
And there you have it – crispy, golden chicken tenders and fries, homemade and ready to enjoy! Perfect for a family meal or a fun weeknight dinner.
Pro Tips and Variations
Let’s make sure you get the crispiest chicken tenders and fries every time! Here are a few pro tips and fun variations to elevate your meal:
Pro Tips for Crispy Perfection:
- For Extra Crunch: Double coat your chicken tenders. After dipping in the egg and breadcrumbs, dip them back in the egg and breadcrumbs again for an even thicker, crunchier crust.
- Don’t Skip the Soak: Soaking the fries in cold water is key for crispy results. It removes excess starch, allowing the fries to crisp up beautifully when cooked.
- Air Fryer Hack: If you’re using an air fryer, don’t overcrowd the basket. Give the chicken tenders and fries plenty of space to allow hot air to circulate and crisp everything up evenly.
- Use a Cooling Rack: After baking or air frying, place your chicken tenders on a cooling rack. This prevents them from getting soggy by allowing air to circulate around them.
Fun Variations to Try:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Swap out regular russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a healthier and slightly sweeter twist.
- Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan-Coated Fries: After baking or air frying, sprinkle the fries with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory upgrade.
- Herb-Infused Chicken Tenders: Mix dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the panko breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
With these tips and variations, you can customize your chicken tenders and fries to suit any craving! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and textures to make this dish your own.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your crispy chicken tenders and fries are ready, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Presentation can elevate this simple dish, making it even more exciting to eat! Here are some delicious serving ideas to pair with your meal:
Classic Dipping Sauces
- Ketchup – A go-to favorite, its sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with both the chicken tenders and fries.
- Honey Mustard – The creamy, sweet, and tangy kick of honey mustard complements the crispy chicken beautifully.
- Barbecue Sauce – Smoky and rich, BBQ sauce adds an extra layer of flavor to your tenders.
- Ranch Dressing – If you love a creamy dip, ranch is a classic choice that goes wonderfully with both the tenders and fries.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Crisp Garden Salad – Serve your chicken tenders and fries with a simple garden salad for a light, refreshing contrast. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Coleslaw – The crunch and tang of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the savory richness of the chicken tenders, creating a well-rounded meal.
Side Dish Ideas
- Vegetables – Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots offer a healthy side dish to balance the richness of the tenders and fries.
- Mac and Cheese – For an indulgent side, serve your crispy chicken tenders with creamy mac and cheese. It’s a comforting, cheesy addition that everyone will love.
Garnish for Extra Flair
- Fresh Herbs – Garnish your chicken tenders and fries with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.
- Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing citrusy note that brightens up the dish and balances out the richness.
With these serving suggestions, you can easily turn a simple meal of chicken tenders and fries into a well-rounded feast that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner at home or hosting a gathering, these sides and dips will elevate the experience!
Conclusion
Chicken tenders and fries are the ultimate comfort food, and with this recipe, you’ve got a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner party, or just treating yourself to a tasty meal, these crispy tenders and golden fries are sure to hit the spot!
With easy-to-follow steps, simple ingredients, and room for creative variations, you can customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you love a classic pairing of ketchup and ranch or want to spice things up with new seasonings, the options are endless. And with helpful pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to make this meal a hit every time.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the crispy, golden goodness of homemade chicken tenders and fries. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles to the table—enjoy!
chicken tenders and fries
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken breast strips – Tender and juicy perfect for crispy coating.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – For that extra crunch you love.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps the coating stick better.
- 2 large eggs beaten – The secret to a crispy, golden exterior.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season every layer perfectly.
For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes – Ideal for making crispy fries.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – To achieve that golden crunchy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt – For perfectly seasoned fries.
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional – For a little extra kick.
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Ketchup honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch – Choose your favorite!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and Cut the Potatoes – Begin by peeling the russet potatoes and slicing them into even, thin strips. This ensures that each fry cooks uniformly and gets crispy on all sides.
- Soak the Fries – Place the potato strips in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking helps remove excess starch, which results in a crispier texture when baked or fried.
- Dry the Fries – Once they’re done soaking, pat the fries dry using a clean towel. The drier the fries, the better their crunch!
Step 2: Season and Cook the Fries
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning – Drizzle olive oil over the fries, ensuring they’re well-coated. Then, sprinkle with salt and optional paprika for a pop of flavor.
- Bake or Air Fry:
- o For Baked Fries: Spread the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures they crisp up evenly.
- o For Air-Fried Fries: Place the fries in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crisping.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- Set Up Your Breading Station – This step makes all the difference for that golden coating!
- o Bowl 1: Combine flour with salt and pepper.
- o Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- o Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs with paprika and garlic powder.
- Coat the Chicken – Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders
- Bake or Air Fry:
- o For Baked Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken strips on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
- o For Air-Fried Chicken Tenders: Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping once to ensure they’re perfectly crispy on both sides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Notes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about making chicken tenders and fries, along with some extra tips to help you perfect the recipe!
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken tenders and fries in advance! For the tenders, bread them and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before cooking. If you’re using fresh fries, you can slice and soak them in water beforehand to keep them crispy when baked or fried. You can even freeze the breaded tenders and cook them from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. What kind of potatoes should I use for fries?
For the crispiest fries, opt for russet potatoes. Their high starch content gives fries a fluffy interior and crispy exterior when baked or fried. If you want to go for something a bit different, sweet potatoes are a great choice for a healthier, slightly sweet variation.
3. How do I get my chicken tenders extra crispy?
To make your chicken tenders even crispier, consider double-coating them. After dipping the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs, dip them a second time before cooking. This double layer ensures a thicker, crunchier crust. For the crispiest results, cook them at a high temperature (425°F) to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating. For extra flavor, you can even add some gluten-free panko for an extra crispy texture. Be sure to check your sauces too—there are plenty of gluten-free options available.
5. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, no air fryer? No problem! You can still bake both the chicken tenders and fries in the oven. Just make sure to flip them halfway through baking to get an even, crispy finish. Air frying is great for extra crunch, but baking works just as well with the right technique.
6. How should I store leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or use the air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes to get them crispy again.
7. Can I use frozen fries?
Yes! If you’re in a pinch, frozen fries work just as well as fresh ones. Choose your preferred variety (regular, curly, or crinkle-cut) and follow the package instructions for baking or air frying. You’ll get a quick, crispy result without sacrificing flavor.
These FAQs should answer any questions you might have while preparing your chicken tenders and fries. Feel free to drop any additional questions in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!