There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of crispy chicken tenders and fries, isn’t there? The joy of freshly fried chicken, golden and crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, brings back fond memories of family dinners and weekend gatherings. After a long week of quick takeout meals, I craved a satisfying homemade alternative that offered both flavor and ease.
This recipe for Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries has become my go-to solution for busy nights or those moments when I just want to indulge in something wholesome. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, I can create a crowd-pleasing meal that rivals any fast food joint. Plus, the aroma of garlic and seasoned fries baking in the oven adds an irresistible touch to any kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the deliciousness and whip up some crispy chicken goodness!
Why You'll Love This Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
- The combination of crispy chicken tenders and golden fries creates a flavor explosion that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- With its versatility, you can easily customize the dish with your favorite dipping sauces or seasonings to suit any occasion.
- Not to mention, the visual appeal of this vibrant and hearty plate makes it an instant hit for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 1 lb; perfect for achieving that tender and juicy bite.
• All-purpose flour – 1 cup; the essential dry coating that provides a lovely crunch when fried.
• Panko breadcrumbs – 2 cups; these create a super crispy texture that sets the tenders apart!
• Large eggs – 2; acting as the binding agent for the crispy coating.
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp; adds a savory depth of flavor to the chicken.
• Salt – 1 tsp; essential for enhancing the overall taste.
• Black pepper – ½ tsp; gives a subtle kick and balances the flavors.
For the Fries
• Medium russet potatoes – 4; these are the best choice for achieving perfectly crispy fries.
• Vegetable oil – ½ cup; used for frying the chicken and achieving that desirable golden color.
For Serving
• Ketchup – for dipping; a classic companion to your crispy chicken tenders and fries, elevating the experience of this homestyle meal.
This dish of Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries is not just about eating; it’s about creating warm, lasting memories around the dinner table!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a crucial step to ensure your fries get perfectly crispy! While you wait, wash and cut your potatoes into fry shapes, then soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
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Set up your breading station. In one bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs for that ultimate crunch!
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Cut the chicken breasts into strips. Start by dredging each strip in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Next, dip each piece in the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, and finally roll in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat (approximately 350°F). Carefully add the chicken strips, frying until they reach a beautiful golden brown color on both sides, about 5-7 minutes total.
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Drain the soaking fries, pat them dry to remove moisture, and toss them lightly in oil and seasoning. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet, and bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
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Serve your crispy chicken tenders and fries hot with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful mealtime treat!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries
Fridge: Store leftover crispy chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen crispy chicken tenders, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Pair with fresh fries for the best taste!
Fries: Store leftover fries in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For crispy reheating, use an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance by breading them and then placing the uncooked strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. After that, cover and refrigerate to maintain freshness. For the fries, you can cut and soak the potatoes in cold water up to 3 days ahead. Just be sure to keep them submerged to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken and bake the fries as directed for a deliciously satisfying meal, just as if you had made it from scratch!
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries?
Embarking on a culinary journey with crispy chicken tenders and fries invites a world of delicious pairings to elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and fries. Its creamy texture delivers a delightful balance that brightens every bite.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic flavor make for a fantastic accompaniment. Perfect for wrapping around those crispy tenders for an indulgent treat!
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Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce: Elevate your meal by opting for a sweet and tangy dip. This sauce complements the savory chicken and provides a delightful twist to the classic ketchup pairing.
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Seasoned Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed, these vibrant green beans add a healthful element to your plate. Their crisp texture and subtle flavor make them a lovely contrast to the heartiness of chicken and fries.
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Zesty Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette brings a touch of brightness to your meal. It’s a creamy, flavorful delight that helps cut through the fried richness.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refresh your palate with a fizzy, citrusy drink. The bright and bubbly notes perfectly complement the warmth and crunch of the chicken and fries, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. These nostalgic treats are a comforting way to celebrate your crispy chicken feast!
Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a zesty flavor explosion.
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Herb-Infused: Mix dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the panko for added aroma and an earthy taste.
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Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the panko breadcrumbs. It’ll add a savory touch and depth of flavor.
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Baked Version: Replace frying with baking by spraying the coated chicken tenders with olive oil and baking at 425°F for a healthier twist.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes to bring a hint of sweetness and added nutrition to your plate.
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Crispy Air Fryer: Use an air fryer for an even crispier texture without the added oil. Cook at 400°F for a juicy result.
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Honey Mustard Dip: Serve with a honey mustard sauce by mixing equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy dip that complements the tenders perfectly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries, always soak your fries in cold water to eliminate excess starch which helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying your chicken strips to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that golden brown color on all sides.
- For an extra layer of flavor, don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices into the flour mixture for the chicken.
- Keep an eye on the frying temperature; maintaining around 350°F is essential for perfect cooking and preventing the chicken from getting greasy.
Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is ideal for this Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries recipe. They provide the best texture and flavor, ensuring your tenders are juicy and tender. Alternatively, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but they will require slightly more cooking time.
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftover crispy chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I freeze chicken tenders?
Yes, you can. For best results, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Are there any tips for achieving extra crispy fries?
Definitely! Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes helps remove excess starch, which promotes crispiness. After soaking, make sure to pat them dry completely before tossing in oil and seasoning. Baking them in a single layer on a baking sheet at a high temperature also guarantees that golden, crispy texture we all love!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To make Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without any worries!
What can I serve with chicken tenders besides ketchup?
The more the merrier! Some delightful alternatives include honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli for those who like a kick. Choose your favorite or mix it up depending on your mood!
Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While you wait, wash and cut your potatoes into fry shapes, then soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Set up your breading station. In one bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, and then roll in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat (approximately 350°F). Add the chicken strips, frying until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes total.
- Drain the soaking fries, pat them dry, and toss them lightly in oil and seasoning. Spread them on a baking sheet, and bake until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
- Serve your crispy chicken tenders and fries hot with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
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