Chicken tenders are a versatile and beloved ingredient in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, quick lunch, or a special occasion, chicken tenders provide a tender and juicy base that can be adapted to a variety of culinary styles. In this expanded guide, we’ll dive deep into 10 different recipes that offer unique takes on this favorite cut of chicken. From fried to baked, spicy to sweet, these recipes will elevate your cooking and introduce new flavors to your table.
What Are Chicken Tenders?
Chicken tenders, also known as chicken strips or chicken fingers, are the slender strips of meat attached to the underside of the chicken breast. Their name comes from their naturally tender texture, making them quick to cook and perfect for all types of meals. Chicken tenders are easy to marinate, fry, bake, grill, and even air-fry. They’re also versatile in terms of flavor profiles—ranging from classic Southern fried to Asian-inspired marinades.
1. Classic Fried Chicken Tenders
Nothing beats the crunch of a perfectly fried chicken tender. This classic recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown tenders with a juicy center, perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken tenders, making sure they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Breading: In a separate dish, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Remove tenders from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, then dredge them in the flour mixture.
- Fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve hot with ranch, honey mustard, or ketchup.
2. Oven-Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders
For a healthier alternative, try these baked chicken tenders coated with Parmesan cheese and crispy panko breadcrumbs. They’re packed with flavor without the need for deep frying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 large eggs
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Breading: In a bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each tender into the eggs, then coat with the panko mixture. Place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
3. Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken Tenders
For a light and refreshing option, these grilled chicken tenders marinated in lemon juice and herbs are perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high. If using an outdoor grill, lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re charred and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve alongside grilled vegetables or over a bed of rice.
4. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders
If you love a bit of heat, these spicy buffalo chicken tenders are for you. Coated in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce, they’re perfect for game day or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup hot sauce
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Season and Coat the Chicken: Season the tenders with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Fry: Heat oil in a skillet and fry the tenders until golden brown.
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce: In a bowl, combine hot sauce and melted butter. Toss the fried tenders in the sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks.
5. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you’re short on time, air-fried chicken tenders are a quick, healthy, and delicious option. The air fryer gives you that crispy texture you love without all the oil.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, mix panko, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dip the chicken in the egg, then coat with the panko mixture.
- Air Fry: Spray the tenders with cooking spray and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or a light salad.
6. Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Tenders
Sweet, tangy, and flavorful, honey mustard baked chicken tenders are a great option for those looking for a simple yet delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Make the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip the tenders in the sauce and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light grain like quinoa.
7. Coconut Crusted Chicken Tenders
These crispy coconut-crusted chicken tenders offer a sweet, tropical twist on the classic dish. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, they make for a perfect appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix the coconut, panko, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each tender in the egg, then coat with the coconut-panko mixture.
- Bake: Spray the tenders with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce or mango salsa.
8. Sesame Chicken Tenders
Inspired by Asian cuisine, sesame chicken tenders are coated in a sticky, savory sauce with a hint of sweetness. They’re ideal for serving over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and garlic. Add the chicken tenders and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the tenders for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Finish with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken before serving.
- Serve: Serve with steamed vegetables and rice.
9. Southern Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
These Southern-style buttermilk chicken tenders are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Marinated in buttermilk and fried to perfection, they’re a must-try for any fried chicken lover.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Marinate the tenders in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least an hour.
- Coat the Chicken: Mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the tenders in the flour mixture.
- Fry: Fry the tenders in hot oil for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve with mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
10. Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Sweet and savory honey garlic chicken tenders are an easy and delicious dinner option. The rich sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the chicken tenders until golden.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together honey, soy sauce, and garlic, and pour over the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve with rice or steamed vegetables.