Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Prepare the Chicken Tenders:

1. Prepare the Breading Station:
   • Set up three shallow bowls for the breading process:
     • In the first bowl, add the flour and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
     • In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
     • In the third bowl, add the breadcrumbs (preferably panko) and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   • Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
   • Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s evenly covered with the crumbs for a crispy coating.
3. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C) for frying.
   • Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Make the Dipping Sauce:

1. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.
2. Adjust the Flavor:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper to your liking. You can also adjust the sweetness with a little more honey or add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.

Tips:

• Crispier Tenders: For extra crunch, try double-dipping the chicken tenders—first in the flour, then the egg and breadcrumbs, then repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for an extra layer of coating.
• Baking Option: If you prefer baking, place the breaded tenders on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Other Sauces: Besides the mustard-honey sauce, you can serve these chicken tenders with barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or buffalo sauce for a variety of flavor options.

Why These Chicken Tenders Are Perfect:

The chicken tenders are crispy on the outside with a tender, juicy interior, making each bite satisfying. Paired with the creamy, tangy dipping sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they’re sure to be a hit!