Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Here’s a recipe for crispy chicken tenders with a delicious dipping sauce:

Crispy Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp water
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:
   • If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips.
   • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the breading sticks well.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
   • In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • In a second shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water.
   • In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough that the chicken sizzles when added but not so hot that it burns.
   • Fry the chicken tenders in batches, turning them occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Drain and Serve:
   • Transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.

Dipping Sauce:

Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add more honey for sweetness or more mustard for tang).
3. Serve alongside the crispy chicken tenders.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or your favorite veggies.
• For added flavor, sprinkle the chicken tenders with a little extra salt and pepper before serving.

Enjoy your crispy chicken tenders with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce!