Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders: irresistibly crispy and flavorful chicken bites 🐔🔥✨

1. Introduction

Discover the ultimate crack chicken recipe that transforms simple chicken tenders into a mouthwatering, easy appetizer everyone loves. Perfect for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing party dish, these chicken tenders are coated with a flavorful seasoning blend and baked or fried to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day or craving a delicious snack, this crack chicken recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into how you can create crispy, tender, and irresistibly seasoned chicken tenders that will become your new favorite appetizer.

2. Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders

  • 1 pound (450g) chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra spice
  • Cooking oil or spray for baking/frying

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Crack Chicken Tenders

Preparation of Chicken Tenders and Coating

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your frying setup.
  2. Rinse the chicken tenders and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to create the seasoned flour mixture.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  5. Place breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish for an extra crispy coating.

Coating the Chicken Tenders

  1. First, dip each chicken tender into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
  2. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, coating all sides.
  3. Finally, roll or press the tenders into the breadcrumbs for a crunchy outer layer.

Cooking the Crack Chicken Tenders

  1. For baking: Arrange the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet or lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. For frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tenders for 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Crack Chicken Tenders

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to enjoy their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

5. Serving Suggestions for Crack Chicken Tenders

Serve these chicken tenders with a variety of dips such as ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for an easy appetizer. They also pair wonderfully with side salads, fries, or veggie sticks for a complete meal. Whether for a casual gathering or a quick snack, these crack chicken tenders will impress every palate with their crispy exterior and juicy interior.

6. Tips to Make the Best Crack Chicken Tenders

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in a spicy or herb-infused marinade for 30 minutes before coating.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunch.
  • Adjust the spice level with cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the coating mixture.
  • Ensure oil or oven is properly preheated to achieve a crispy exterior.
  • Try [making other flavorful chicken recipes](https://mealsmom.com/the-easiest-chicken-alfredo-recipe/) to complement your crack chicken tenders.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Chicken Tenders

What is crack chicken?

Crack chicken is a popular flavorful chicken dish characterized by its crispy coating and savory seasoning, often seasoned with spices and baked or fried to optimal crispness, making it a delightful easy appetizer.

Can I make crack chicken tenders keto-friendly?

Yes, simply substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour and crushed pork rinds to make a keto-friendly version of these crispy chicken tenders.

How do I get extra crispy crack chicken tenders?

Using panko breadcrumbs, ensuring oil or oven are hot enough, and not overcrowding the baking sheet or pan will result in extra crispy chicken tenders. For additional crunch, consider checking out this Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast.

Can I freeze leftover crack chicken tenders?

Absolutely! Store cooked tenders in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best crispy results.

8. Conclusion

In summary, crack chicken tenders are a delicious, satisfying easy appetizer that combines crispy texture with flavorful seasoning. Whether baked or fried, these chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your snack repertoire. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or quick bites, this recipe offers a perfect blend of crunch and tenderness. Enjoy creating a satisfying dish that will wow your guests and satisfy every craving for a savory and crispy crack chicken treat.

Print
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Golden crispy Crack Chicken Tenders garnished with fresh herbs on a rustic wooden plate.

Crack Chicken Tenders

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Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crispy and flavorful chicken bites that are perfect for snacking, parties, or as a delicious appetizer. Coated with a savory seasoning blend and baked or fried to perfection, these tenders offer a crunchy exterior and tender inside, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite.

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra spice
  • Cooking oil or spray for baking/frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your frying setup.
  2. Rinse the chicken tenders and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to create the seasoned flour mixture.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  5. Place breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish for an extra crispy coating.
  1. First, dip each chicken tender into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
  2. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, coating all sides.
  3. Finally, roll or press the tenders into the breadcrumbs for a crunchy outer layer.
  1. For baking: Arrange the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet or lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. For frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tenders for 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Notes

  • Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
  • Adjust spice level with cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the coating mixture.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking, Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Any

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 tenders (about 150g)
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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