Print

Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe Easy Quick Dinner Idea

crispy crack chicken tenders - featured image

Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders offer a crunchy outside and juicy inside with a savory, slightly spicy coating. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) fresh, skinless chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
  • 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk or milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable or canola oil (or avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Pat 1.5 pounds (680 grams) of chicken tenders dry with paper towels and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (30 grams) cornstarch, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper if using. Stir well.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk or milk.
  4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. For extra crunch, double dredge by dipping back into the egg and then the flour again.
  5. Heat 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F / 175°C).
  6. Carefully place chicken tenders in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Flip gently with tongs.
  7. Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or plate lined with paper towels. Let rest for a few minutes.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before dredging to help coating stick. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep tenders crispy. Double dredging and chilling coated tenders before frying improves crunch. Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C). Rest tenders after frying to keep crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, fried chicken, weeknight meal, chicken coating, savory chicken, family dinner