Kids Chicken Tenders Recipe
Make Kids Chicken Tenders Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Chicken & Marinade
Breading
Egg Wash
For Frying or Baking
Optional Dipping Sauces
Method
Chicken & Marinade
- 1
Prepare chicken
Trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts. Slice each breast into 3–4 even strips about 1 to 1½ inches wide so pieces are child-friendly and cook evenly.
- 2
Marinate
Place chicken strips in a bowl. Add buttermilk, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours (short chill tenderizes slightly and improves adhesion of the breading). If you don’t have buttermilk, use 3 tbs plain yogurt thinned with 1 tbs milk.
Breading
- 3
Mix dry mix
In a shallow bowl or wide plate, combine flour, panko, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Parmesan (if using), 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Whisk or stir to evenly distribute seasonings.
- 4
Set up dredging station
Arrange three shallow bowls/plates: one with the flour/panko mixture, one with the egg wash (beat eggs with 2 tbs milk), and an empty plate for finished tenders. Remove chicken from marinade letting excess drip off; do not dry completely — a little moisture helps breading stick.
- 5
Bread the tenders
Working one at a time, gently dredge each strip in the flour/panko mixture, then dip into the egg wash, then press back into the flour/panko mixture to coat completely. Press firmly but gently so the coating adheres. Place breaded tenders on the finished plate and let rest 5 minutes to set.
For Frying or Baking
- 6
Frying (preferred for crispiness)
Pour about 1/2 inch vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat until oil registers 350°F (175°C) or a small breadcrumb sizzles immediately when dropped in. Fry tenders in a single layer, not crowding the pan, 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain.
- 7
Baking (healthier option)
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment and place a wire rack on top if available. Arrange tenders on the rack and lightly spray tops with cooking spray. Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). For extra crispness, broil 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
- 8