There’s something timeless about the combination of crispy chicken tenders and perfectly golden fries. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or feeding your family, this dish never disappoints. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it’s also simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and offering maximum flavor. In this article, we’ll guide you through making simple chicken tenders and fries, covering everything from the essential ingredients to expert tips and variations you can try to make it your own.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Tenders and Fries
You’ve probably enjoyed chicken tenders and fries countless times, but there’s just something about this meal that never gets old. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and paired with golden fries, it’s the perfect comfort food. Whether it’s the crunch of the chicken, the softness of the fries, or the ease with which you can prepare it, this meal offers a balance of textures and flavors that is hard to beat.
This recipe is not just about satisfying your hunger—it’s about comfort. The familiarity of chicken tenders and fries can take you back to your childhood or remind you of family dinners. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home. No need to order takeout when you can create this delicious dish yourself in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients for Chicken Tenders and Fries
Before diving into the steps, let’s start by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need for the recipe. You’ll find that everything is pretty straightforward and easy to get your hands on. Here’s what you need:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for a crispier texture)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and cut into fries)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ tsp paprika or garlic powder (for additional flavor)
This recipe is a great base, and once you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’ll be ready to get started!
How to Make Chicken Tenders and Fries
Making chicken tenders and fries at home is an easy process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a meal ready in under an hour.
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Start by cutting your chicken breasts into strips. Cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and a third with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. These seasonings will give your tenders the perfect flavor.
- First, dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finish by coating it with the breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully coated for that crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Fries:
- Peel and cut your russet potatoes into thin strips. The thinner you slice them, the crispier they’ll become.
- Toss the fries in olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add paprika or garlic powder here for extra flavor, but it’s optional.
- For crispy fries, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake them at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you prefer, you can fry them for an even crispier texture.
3. Fry the Chicken Tenders:
- Add a sufficient amount of vegetable oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot, but not yet smoking.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
4. Serve:
- Once the chicken tenders and fries are cooked, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders and Fries
To make your chicken tenders and fries even more delicious, here are some expert tips that’ll take your dish to the next level:
- Double-Breading: For an extra crispy exterior, try double-breading your chicken tenders. After the first coat of flour and breadcrumbs, dip them again in the egg and breadcrumbs before frying. This will give you an even crunchier result.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier texture than traditional breadcrumbs. They absorb less oil and create a beautiful golden crust.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken tenders. Fry them in small batches to ensure each piece gets the attention it needs and cooks evenly.
- Reheat Fries Properly: If you have leftover fries, the best way to reheat them is by using an oven or air fryer. This will help restore their crispy texture, rather than making them soggy in the microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Tenders and Fries
Even though this dish is simple, there are still a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure you get the best results every time:
Overcooking the Chicken: While it’s tempting to leave the chicken in the oil longer for extra crispiness, overcooking can lead to dry, tough tenders. Be mindful of the cooking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Soggy Fries: The secret to crispy fries is not overcrowding the baking sheet. If the fries are too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisping up. Make sure they have room to breathe while baking.
Using Cold Oil: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken tenders will absorb more oil, making them greasy. Always heat the oil before adding the chicken to fry.
Not Seasoning Enough: Chicken tenders and fries need flavor, so don’t skimp on the seasonings. Be generous with salt and pepper, and consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to enhance the taste.
Variations to Try
While the classic chicken tenders and fries combo is unbeatable, here are a few fun variations to try:
Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add some heat by mixing cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breading. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the tenders once they’re cooked for a spicy twist.
Sweet Potato Fries: For a healthier option, swap regular russet potatoes for sweet potatoes. Sweet potato fries are naturally sweeter and pair wonderfully with the crispy chicken tenders.
Air-Fried Chicken Tenders and Fries: If you prefer a healthier version, try cooking both the chicken tenders and fries in an air fryer. They’ll still come out crispy and delicious without the need for excessive oil.
Parmesan-Coated Fries: Add a rich, cheesy twist to your fries by sprinkling grated Parmesan on top before baking. This will add depth of flavor and a delightful texture.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken tenders and fries are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to serve them up in a more creative way:
Pair with a Salad: Add a light, fresh salad to balance out the richness of the chicken and fries. A tangy vinaigrette will contrast beautifully with the crispy meal.
Make a Chicken Tender Wrap: Wrap the chicken tenders and fries in a soft tortilla with some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a satisfying wrap.
Serve with Coleslaw: The creaminess of Coleslaw complements the crunch of the chicken and fries, making it a perfect side dish.
How to Store Chicken Tenders and Fries
If you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store your chicken tenders and fries to keep them fresh:
- Chicken Tenders: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy exterior.
- Fries: Leftover fries should also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, bake them or air fry them at a high temperature to maintain their crispiness.
For longer storage, you can freeze both chicken tenders and fries. To do this, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat from frozen, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
FAQ: Simple Chicken Tenders and Fries
Why are they called chicken tenders?
Chicken tenders get their name from the specific cut of chicken used: the tenderloin. The tenderloin is a small, tender muscle located beneath the chicken breast. This part of the chicken is known for its soft, juicy texture, which is why it’s often used to make tenders. The term “tender” refers to the meat’s tenderness, making it ideal for breading and frying to create those perfectly crispy chicken tenders we all love.
What is the difference between chicken tenders and fingers?
While the terms “chicken tenders” and “chicken fingers” are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between the two. Chicken tenders are typically made from the chicken tenderloin, which is a specific part of the chicken. On the other hand, chicken fingers can be made from any part of the chicken breast that is sliced into strips, not necessarily the tenderloin. In terms of cooking, both are similar, but chicken tenders are considered more tender and lean since they come from the tenderloin.
How do you keep chicken tenders juicy when frying?
To keep chicken tenders juicy when frying, there are a few key tips to follow:
Don’t Overcook: Overcooking chicken tenders is the quickest way to dry them out. Fry them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Brine Before Frying: Soaking your chicken tenders in a simple brine (water and salt) for about 30 minutes helps lock in moisture, making the tenders juicier and more flavorful.
Use Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk or a seasoned marinade for a few hours before breading can also help keep them moist, as the acidity in the buttermilk tenderizes the meat.
Fry at the Right Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough—around 350°F. If the oil is too cold, the tenders will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy. A hot oil temperature ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Can I air fry chicken tenders and fries at the same time?
Yes, you can air fry chicken tenders and fries at the same time, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best results:
Arrange in Layers: If your air fryer has a large enough basket, you can place the chicken tenders and fries in a single layer with some space between them to allow the hot air to circulate properly. Overcrowding them can prevent even cooking.
Adjust Cooking Times: Chicken tenders and fries may have different cooking times. Fries typically take longer to cook, so you may need to start frying the fries first, then add the chicken tenders in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Flip or Shake Midway: To ensure an even crisp, flip the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time, and shake or stir the fries to ensure both cook evenly.
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Chicken tenders and fries
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs use panko for a crispier texture
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ tsp paprika or garlic powder for additional flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Cut the chicken breasts into even strips to ensure they cook evenly. Prepare three separate bowls: one filled with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with a blend of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip it in the eggs, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture for a crispy texture.
Prepare the Fries:
- Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into thin strips. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper (and optional spices). Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. You can fry them for a crispier texture if you prefer.
Fry the Chicken Tenders:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches the right temperature. Cook the chicken tenders in batches, frying each side for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn them.
Serve:
- Once cooked, drain the chicken tenders and fries on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.