Kid's Tenders Recipe
Three Tender Basket with choice of fries or fruit cup.
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Ingredients
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Chicken Tenders
Choice of Side — Fries
Choice of Side — Fruit Cup
Dipping Sauces (optional)
Method
Chicken Tenders
Prep and brine
If using whole chicken breasts, cut into 9 even tender-sized strips (about 3 per serving). Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes and up to 2 hours — this tenderizes and flavors the meat.
Set up breading station
In one shallow bowl combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder and onion powder. In a second bowl beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl place the breadcrumbs. Label the bowls: flour, egg, breadcrumbs.
Bread the tenders
Working with 2–3 pieces at a time, remove a tender from the buttermilk (let excess drip off), dredge in the seasoned flour to lightly coat, dip into the beaten eggs, then press into the breadcrumbs to fully coat. Place breaded tenders on a wire rack or tray while you finish the rest.
Fry the tenders (deep/shallow pan)
Pour oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1/2 inch (or use a deep fryer with oil heated to 350°F / 175°C). Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (if you don't have a thermometer, test with a small breadcrumb — it should sizzle and brown within ~30 seconds). Fry tenders in batches of 3, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) if needed while finishing batches.
Alternative: Bake (healthier)
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place breaded tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and cooked through to 165°F (75°C).
Fries (If chosen)
Cook frozen fries according to package instructions. For oven: spread fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–18 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. For deep fryer: fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until crisp. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and serve alongside tenders with ketchup.
Fruit Cup (If chosen)
Combine the grapes, sliced banana, diced apple (tossed with a little lemon juice if prepared ahead), and orange segments in a small bowl. Gently toss to mix and portion into a small cup. Keep chilled until serving.