Chicken Tenders in Skillet Recipe: Quick & Crispy Delight

Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by Nathan Miller

Sure! Here’s the concise answer: This chicken tenders in skillet recipe is a quick and delicious way to prepare crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders on the stovetop.

To make this recipe, you’ll need chicken tenders, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasoning. If you’re looking for a simple and tasty dinner option, chicken tenders in skillet is a great choice. This recipe offers a convenient way to cook juicy and flavorful chicken tenders on the stovetop, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown coating that’s sure to please the whole family.

With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistently delicious results.

Introduction To Skillet Chicken Tenders

Introducing a delicious recipe for skillet chicken tenders. This easy-to-make dish features tender and juicy chicken strips cooked to perfection in a skillet, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering chicken tender experience right at home.

The Appeal Of Quick And Crispy Meals

Everyone loves a quick and tasty meal, and chicken tenders cooked in a skillet provide just that. With minimal preparation time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Chicken tenders are also a favorite among kids, making it a perfect family-friendly meal option. The best part about skillet chicken tenders is that they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.

Why Skillet Cooking Makes A Difference

Skillet cooking is a game-changer when it comes to preparing meals. The high heat of the skillet ensures that food is cooked evenly and quickly, allowing you to have a meal ready in no time. Skillet cooking also requires minimal oil, making it a healthier cooking method compared to deep-frying. Another advantage of skillet cooking is that it allows you to create a delicious crust on your chicken tenders, making them crispy and flavorful. The versatility of a skillet also means that you can cook other ingredients alongside your chicken tenders, such as vegetables or potatoes, for a complete meal.

Here’s a simple recipe for skillet chicken tenders that you can try at home:

Ingredients:	Instructions:
1 lb chicken tenders 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 2 tbsp olive oil	In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and serve immediately.

Essential Ingredients For The Perfect Chicken Tenders

When it comes to creating the perfect skillet chicken tenders, choosing the right ingredients is essential. From selecting the ideal chicken cut to using flavorful seasonings and breadcrumbs, each component plays a crucial role in achieving delicious, crispy chicken tenders. Let’s explore the essential ingredients needed for the perfect chicken tenders.

Choosing The Right Chicken Cut

When selecting the chicken cut for your skillet chicken tenders, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These cuts are lean and tender, making them ideal for creating juicy and flavorful chicken tenders. Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly sliced into strips to promote even cooking and a uniform texture.

Seasonings And Breadcrumbs For Flavorful Crust

To impart delicious flavor and create a crispy crust on your chicken tenders, it’s crucial to use the right seasonings and breadcrumbs. Coat the chicken strips with a blend of seasonings such as salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to enhance the taste. For the perfect crust, use a combination of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This blend adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor to the chicken tenders when cooked in the skillet.

Tools And Equipment Needed

Preparing delicious chicken tenders in a skillet requires the right tools and equipment to ensure a successful cooking experience. From selecting the perfect skillet to having additional kitchen utensils on hand, here is everything you need to get started:

Selecting The Right Skillet

When it comes to cooking chicken tenders in a skillet, choosing the right one is crucial. Consider the following factors when selecting a skillet:

1. Material: Opt for a skillet made of stainless steel, cast iron, or non-stick material for even heat distribution and easy cleanup.
2. Size: Ensure the skillet is large enough to comfortably fit all the chicken tenders without overcrowding, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
3. Depth: A skillet with higher sides can help prevent oil splatters while frying the chicken tenders.

Additional Kitchen Utensils

In addition to a suitable skillet, you’ll need a few essential kitchen utensils to make the chicken tender recipe a breeze. Here are the must-have tools:

• Tongs: These will come in handy for flipping and turning the chicken tenders while they cook.
• Thermometer: To ensure the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, a meat thermometer is essential for checking the internal temperature.
• Baking sheet: Having a baking sheet ready allows you to transfer the cooked chicken tenders onto it to drain excess oil and keep them warm.
• Paper towels: Keep a stack of paper towels nearby to blot any excess oil from the chicken tenders before serving.
• Knife and cutting board: To prepare the chicken tenders, a sharp knife and a clean cutting board are necessary for trimming and portioning.

With the right skillet and additional kitchen utensils at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to embark on creating a mouthwatering skillet chicken tender recipe that will impress everyone!

Preparing The Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on their own or added to a variety of recipes. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of preparing chicken tenders in a skillet, ensuring they are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Cleaning And Slicing The Chicken

To start, you’ll need to clean and slice the chicken into tender-sized pieces. Follow these simple steps:

1. Wash the chicken thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Place the chicken on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice it into thin, even strips.

By slicing the chicken into strips, you’ll ensure that they cook evenly and quickly in the skillet.

Marinating For Enhanced Taste

Marinating the chicken tenders is the key to infusing them with extra flavor. Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering marinade:

1. In a bowl, combine your choice of marinade ingredients. This can include a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices.
2. Place the chicken tenders into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will become.

By following these simple steps for cleaning, slicing, and marinating the chicken tenders, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Stay tuned for the next section of our blog post where we’ll guide you through the cooking process in a skillet!

Creating The Crispy Coating

Mixing The Dry Ingredients

Start by preparing the dry ingredients for the crispy coating. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. For an extra kick of flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika to the mix. Use a whisk to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Dredging The Chicken For The Perfect Crust

Once the dry ingredients are mixed, it’s time to dredge the chicken for that perfect crispy crust. Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Then, dip each tender into the dry mixture, ensuring that it’s fully coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour before transferring the coated tenders to a plate.

Cooking Techniques For Skillet Chicken Tenders

Discover the secrets to perfectly cooked skillet chicken tenders with this easy recipe. Learn essential cooking techniques that result in tender, juicy chicken every time. Elevate your dinner game with this delicious and hassle-free dish.

Cooking Techniques for Skillet Chicken Tenders

Mastering The Skillet Temperature

Maintain consistent heat for optimal results.

Achieving Even Cooking And Crispiness

Flip the tenders halfway for uniform texture. Set skillet to medium-high heat for golden brown finish. Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness. Ensure tenders are not overcrowded in the skillet. Coat tenders with a thin layer of oil. Sear each side until crispy and cooked through. Avoid flipping tenders excessively for best texture. Monitor cooking time to prevent overcooking. Let tenders rest before serving for juiciness.

Serving Suggestions And Pairings

Choosing The Right Dips And Sauces

Enhance the flavor with various dips:

• Honey Mustard
• Ranch Dressing
• Barbecue Sauce

Side Dishes That Complement Chicken Tenders

Pair your skillet chicken tenders with:

• Crispy French Fries
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Fresh Garden Salad

Credit: thealmondeater.com

Storage And Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Use within 3 days for the best taste and quality.
• Avoid storing with other moist foods to prevent sogginess.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
3. For a quick reheat, use an air fryer for 3-4 minutes.

Variations Of The Classic Skillet Chicken Tenders

Gluten-free And Low-carb Options

For a healthier twist, try gluten-free or low-carb versions:

• Use almond flour or coconut flour as a coating.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds.
• Opt for a keto-friendly almond meal crust.

Experimenting With Different Seasonings And Coatings

Enhance your skillet chicken tenders with unique flavors:

1. Spice it up with Cajun seasoning for a kick.
2. Try a tangy honey mustard marinade.
3. Coat them in crushed nuts for added crunch.

Credit: www.cookingclassy.com

Conclusion: Elevating Your Chicken Tender Game

If you’re a fan of quick and flavorful meals, this skillet chicken tenders recipe is a must-try. With its simple yet versatile cooking method, it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their chicken tender game.

Final Thoughts On Skillet Cooking

Skillet cooking offers a convenient way to achieve tender, juicy chicken tenders with a delightful golden crust. The even heat distribution and minimal oil usage make it a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Encouraging Home Cooks To Experiment

Aspiring home cooks should feel empowered to experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and side dishes when preparing skillet chicken tenders. Embracing creativity in the kitchen can lead to exciting flavor combinations and enjoyable dining experiences.

Credit: www.skinnytaste.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Make Chicken Tenders In A Skillet?

To make chicken tenders in a skillet, first, coat the chicken tenders with a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. Then, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through.

What Can I Serve With Chicken Tenders?

Chicken tenders can be served with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salad, or French fries. You can also dip them in your favorite sauce like barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch.

Can I Bake Chicken Tenders Instead Of Frying Them?

Yes, you can bake chicken tenders instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and golden brown.

How Long Do Chicken Tenders Last In The Fridge?

Cooked chicken tenders can last for 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Make sure to cool them down first before storing them.

Conclusion

Elevate your cooking game with our easy skillet chicken tenders recipe. Impress your family with this delicious dish. Try it today for a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love. Say goodbye to bland dinners and hello to flavorful homemade chicken tenders.

Enjoy cooking!