Craving a juicy, flavorful chicken tender dinner that's both quick and easy? Look no further! Inspired by the popular meal kit service, this HelloFresh Chicken Tenders recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste without the complicated steps. It's perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply satisfying that craving for a comforting, homemade meal. This recipe offers a healthier twist on classic chicken tenders, perfect for those looking for delicious and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet stunning dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better. Seasoning the chicken generously is key to a flavorful outcome.
Step 2: Make the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In the second, place the beaten egg. In the third, mix the panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders
For Frying: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious HelloFresh-inspired chicken tenders immediately. They’re fantastic on their own, but even better with your favorite dipping sauces – honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the breading for a spicy kick.
- Italian-Herb Chicken Tenders: Substitute Italian seasoning for the paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Toss the cooked chicken tenders in your favorite buffalo wing sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, for baked version):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. Enjoy this easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish! These quick dinner ideas are perfect for busy weeknights, and this homemade cooking recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s one of the best recipes for easy and delicious chicken tenders.