30 Minute Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, the 30 Minute Chicken Tenders Recipe might be just what you need. It’s simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients like chicken tenders, eggs, and flour. You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste. Plus, the cooking method guarantees the tenders turn out crispy and golden. Let’s explore the details of this recipe and how you can make it perfect for your next dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this chicken tenders recipe stands out for several reasons.

First, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients like chicken tenderloins, seasonings, and coatings such as mayonnaise or cheese. You can whip it up in as little as 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy days. Additionally, the chicken must reach an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

The cooking methods are versatile, allowing you to bake, pan-fry, or grill your tenders. Plus, kids love them, and you can customize the flavors with different sauces.

Nutritionally, chicken tenderloins are high in protein and low in fat, offering healthy options without sacrificing taste.

With all these benefits, you’ll find this recipe both practical and enjoyable for any meal.

History

Chicken tenders have a fascinating history that spans several decades, with various claims about their origins. Some say these delicious bites were created in New Orleans during the 1960s, while others point to The Puritan Backroom in Manchester, New Hampshire, as the birthplace in 1974. Curiously, Mussari’s Sun Valley Motel and Restaurant in Pennsylvania advertised “French-fried chicken fingers” back in 1966. Robert C. Baker is often mistakenly credited with inventing chicken fingers, as he actually developed the chicken nugget in 1963. The exact origin remains disputed, with multiple restaurants claiming to have created them. The terms “tenders” and “fingers” are frequently used interchangeably, adding to the confusion surrounding their history. Chicken tenders are strips of chicken breast, known for their tenderness, which further contributes to their widespread popularity.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil (for frying)

Cooking Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. In another shallow dish, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper as well.
Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, coating it evenly, then into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, return the chicken to the flour for a second coating.
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a little cooking oil to help them become crispy in the oven. Using plenty of oil is essential for achieving the desired crispiness.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is recommended.

Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure to let your chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with your seasoning—adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or Italian herbs to the flour can elevate the flavor profile of your chicken tenders.

For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs in place of some or all of the flour.

Final Thoughts

After you’ve enjoyed the delicious chicken tenders, consider how this simple recipe can become a staple in your cooking routine.

With versatile cooking methods like baking, air frying, or even microwaving, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your kitchen setup. The key ingredients—chicken, breading, and seasonings—allow for creativity, so feel free to experiment with flavors. Additionally, many participants found the cooking experience to be fun and engaging, leading to a desire to recreate the dish at home.

Remember to handle the chicken safely and follow the cooking tips for the best results. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a gathering, these tenders are sure to please.

Plus, with their nutritional benefits, you can feel good about serving them. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try again soon!

FAQ

Wondering how to make the perfect chicken tenders? Start by choosing your cooking method. You can bake them at 400°F for a healthier option or deep fry at 350°F for that crispy texture.

Prep time is quick, just 5 to 12 minutes, while cooking takes between 12 to 30 minutes. Always verify your tenders reach an internal temperature of 160°F to be safe.

For coating, consider using mayonnaise and cheese if baking, or a mix of flour and breadcrumbs for frying. Don’t forget spices like garlic powder and paprika for flavor!

If you’re looking for gluten-free options, almond or coconut flour works well. Brining the chicken before cooking can also enhance the flavor and juiciness. Enjoy your delicious chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce!