Introduction to Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further! The Easy Chicken Tender Dinner is here to save the day. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who enjoys a tasty meal, this recipe is perfect for you.
What Makes an Easy Chicken Tender Dinner Special?
What sets the Easy Chicken Tender Dinner apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. First, chicken tenders are naturally tender and juicy, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, they cook quickly, which means you can have dinner on the table in no time.
Another special aspect is the crispy coating. The combination of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs creates a delightful crunch that enhances the chicken’s flavor. You can customize the spices to suit your taste, making it a dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Moreover, this meal is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or even a casual get-together with friends, the Easy Chicken Tender Dinner fits right in. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, and you have a meal that everyone will rave about!
In the following sections, we will dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to make your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner even better. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
To create a mouthwatering Easy Chicken Tender Dinner, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. These items are easy to find and can be prepared in no time. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken tenders: 1 lb (about 450 g) – The star of the dish! Choose fresh or frozen, but make sure they are thawed if frozen.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g) – This will help create a nice base for the coating.
- Eggs: 2 large – Beaten eggs act as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (100 g) – Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the overall taste of the chicken.
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds a bit of spice to the dish.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon – Gives a delicious garlic flavor.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon – Adds color and a mild smokiness.
- Olive oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml) – Helps the chicken crisp up beautifully in the oven.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. You can also adjust the seasonings to match your family’s preferences. For instance, if you love a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture. The possibilities are endless!
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next step: preparing the chicken for your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken for Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
To kick off your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner, start by preparing the chicken tenders. Rinse them under cold water to remove any residue. After rinsing, pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the coating stick better. If the chicken is wet, the flour won’t adhere properly, leading to a less crispy result.
Step 2: Marinating the Chicken for Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken tenders. You can use buttermilk or a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite spices. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the chicken more tender. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and proceed directly to breading.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken for Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
Now, it’s time to cook the chicken! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, set up your breading station. In three shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture. Coat each chicken tender in flour first, then dip it in the eggs, and finally, cover it with breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
Once all the chicken tenders are coated, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help them crisp up. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
After baking, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist. Serve your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner on a white plate to showcase their crispy exterior. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. You can also add a side of fresh veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQs About Easy Chicken Tender Dinner
What sides go well with Easy Chicken Tender Dinner?
When it comes to pairing sides with your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner, the options are endless! Here are some delicious ideas:
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice that kids and adults love.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans provide a healthy balance to your meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy dish is a favorite among children and pairs well with chicken tenders.
- Rice or Quinoa: A side of rice or quinoa can make your dinner more filling and nutritious.
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!
Can I make Easy Chicken Tender Dinner ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner ahead of time! You can bread the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This way, you can save time on busy nights and still enjoy a delicious meal!
How do I store leftovers from Easy Chicken Tender Dinner?
Storing leftovers from your Easy Chicken Tender Dinner is simple. Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
Is Easy Chicken Tender Dinner suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The Easy Chicken Tender Dinner is a kid-friendly meal that most children love. The chicken tenders are tender, juicy, and have a crispy coating that appeals to young taste buds. Plus, you can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, making it even more fun for kids to enjoy. Just be mindful of any allergies and adjust the spices to suit their taste preferences!
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Easy Chicken Tender Dinner: A Quick Family Favorite!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, featuring tender chicken tenders with a crispy coating.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders: 1 lb (about 450 g)
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (100 g)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk or a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, dip in eggs, and cover with breadcrumbs, pressing to ensure they stick.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving with dipping sauces and sides.
Notes
- Pat the chicken dry to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Preheat the oven for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
- Flip the tenders halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F or 75°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: chicken tenders, easy dinner, family meal, quick recipe
