15 Homemade Chicken Tender Recipes Kids Request
Did you know that over 80% of kids prefer chicken tenders as their go-to meal? If you’re looking to please picky eaters or simply want to whip up something delicious, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’ll explore 15 homemade chicken tender recipes that kids can’t resist, ranging from crispy baked options to flavorful marinades. Get ready to discover fun and easy recipes that will have your little ones asking for seconds!
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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip
This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy exterior and a delightful sweet and tangy dipping sauce, perfect for both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
4. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
5. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
6. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
7. Finally, roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
8. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
10. While the chicken is baking, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise in a small bowl to make the dip.
11. Serve the chicken tenders warm with the honey mustard dip on the side.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the baking sheet for an even crisp.
- Adjust the sweetness of the honey mustard dip by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
Classic BBQ Chicken Tenders
This Classic BBQ Chicken Tenders recipe is special because it boasts a smoky sweetness with a crispy exterior, making it a delightful dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat or spread chicken tenders on a baking sheet if baking.
5. Fry the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, or bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
6. Brush the BBQ sauce on both sides of the tenders during the last few minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours before breading.
- Ensure the oil is hot before adding chicken to achieve a crispy texture.
- Serve with additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders recipe stands out for its bright, zesty flavors and crispy texture, making it a delightful meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
3. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the seasoning mixture.
4. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
- Serve with a dipping sauce such as honey mustard or ranch for added taste.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture if you prefer breaded tenders.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Tenders
These Cheesy Garlic Chicken Tenders elevate the classic dish with a mouthwatering blend of savory garlic and rich cheese, creating a flavorful and crunchy delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken tenders for extra crunch.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the tenders and return to the oven until melted.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in garlic and olive oil for a few hours before coating.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized touch.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an added kick!
Sweet and Spicy Chicken Tenders
This Sweet and Spicy Chicken Tenders recipe perfectly balances the warmth of spice with a hint of sweetness, making it utterly irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the honey and hot sauce to create a glaze and set aside.
2. In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
3. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove chicken tenders from the pan and coat with the honey and hot sauce glaze.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, double dip the chicken tenders in the egg and breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- Pair these tenders with a refreshing dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.
- Make a larger batch and freeze for a quick meal option later.
Ranch Coated Chicken Tenders
This Ranch Coated Chicken Tenders recipe is special for its crispy, flavorful ranch seasoning that perfectly complements tender chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Begin by marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
5. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a bit of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- These tenders can also be baked at 400°F for a healthier option, about 20 minutes.
- Experiment with different ranch seasoning brands for varied flavor profiles.
Panko-Crusted Chicken Tenders
This Panko-Crusted Chicken Tenders recipe is special for its irresistibly crunchy texture and savory flavor, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Start by setting up a breading station with three shallow bowls; one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for the panko mixture.
2. In the bowl for the panko, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tenderloin into the flour, coating it thoroughly before shaking off the excess.
4. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated.
5. Finally, press the chicken into the panko mixture, making sure it is fully coated on all sides.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot.
7. Add the chicken tenders to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, and cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve the Panko-Crusted Chicken Tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10 minutes after frying.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices to the panko mixture for a personalized flavor.
- These tenders can be made in bulk and frozen for quick meals later.
Teriyaki Chicken Tenders
This Teriyaki Chicken Tenders recipe combines the savory sweetness of teriyaki sauce with tender chicken for a quick and delectable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade, and place tenders in the skillet.
5. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
6. In the last minute of cooking, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for up to 1 hour.
- Serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Parmesan Herb Chicken Tenders
This Parmesan Herb Chicken Tenders recipe stands out with its crispy coating and delightful blend of savory herbs, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender in the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Dredge the chicken tenders in the Parmesan mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Serve with marinara sauce or a creamy dip for added flavor.
- You can substitute the chicken tenders with chicken breasts, sliced into strips.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Blue Cheese Dip
Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Blue Cheese Dip is a deliciously spicy and tangy dish that perfectly combines crispy chicken with a creamy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Begin by preheating your oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium heat.
2. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with buttermilk, and one with breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken tender first in the flour, then in the buttermilk, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together blue cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper to make the dip.
6. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, toss them in buffalo sauce to coat evenly.
7. Serve the buffalo chicken tenders hot with the blue cheese dip on the side.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, double dip the chicken tenders in the flour and breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce used.
- Let the dipping sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders
Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders are special for their crispy texture and tropical flavor, bringing a delightful twist to your chicken dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
4. In a third bowl, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
5. Dip each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the coconut mixture, pressing to adhere.
6. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the chicken tenders.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in lime juice for 30 minutes before coating.
- Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce for a delightful contrast.
- Make ahead and freeze the coated tenders; bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Mediterranean Chicken Tenders with Tzatziki Sauce
This Mediterranean Chicken Tenders with Tzatziki Sauce recipe combines savory herbs and spices with a refreshing yogurt sauce for a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender in olive oil and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. While the chicken is baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill in a bowl. Mix well.
6. Serve the Mediterranean chicken tenders hot with a generous side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, consider double coating the chicken by dipping it in egg before the breadcrumb mixture.
- Let the tzatziki sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- These chicken tenders are also great on a salad or in a wrap for a delicious meal option.
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
This Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders recipe is special for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and salt to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken tenders in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Arrange the marinated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and reserve the marinade.
5. Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then flip them over and brush with the reserved marinade. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, consider breading the chicken tenders before baking.
- Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spicy Orange Chicken Tenders
These Spicy Orange Chicken Tenders bring together a perfect balance of zesty citrus and a kick of heat, making them irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- oil for frying
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Begin by marinating the chicken tenderloins in a mixture of orange juice, orange zest, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for at least 15 minutes.
2. While the chicken is marinating, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
3. After marinating, coat each chicken tenderloin first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring there is enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken tenders, cooking in batches if necessary, and fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, double dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs.
- Serve with extra sriracha or sweet chili sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Sesame Soy Chicken Tenders
This Sesame Soy Chicken Tenders recipe brings together the rich umami flavor of soy sauce and the nutty taste of sesame, creating a tantalizing dish that is quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a little sesame oil.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place it in the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken tenders during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve topped with chopped green onions and enjoy!
Tips:
- For a healthier option, bake the marinated chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Pair these tenders with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- You can adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of honey used in the marinade.
