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A plate of crispy chicken tenders with french fries and various dipping sauces.

chicken tenders and fries

Chef Julia
Craving comfort food? Try this easy homemade recipe for crispy chicken tenders and fries—perfectly golden, delicious, and kid-approved
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken breast cut into strips
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs regular or panko for extra crunch
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free alternative
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for baking

For the Fries:

  • 2 large russet potatoes cut into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Prep the Chicken Tenders:
  • Pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well.
  • In three separate bowls set up your breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Dip each chicken strip into the flour then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
  • Prepare the Fries:
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F 220°C.
  • Soak the potato strips in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch then pat them dry thoroughly.
  • Toss the fries with olive oil smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  • Cook to Perfection:
  • Arrange the chicken tenders and fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure they’re spaced out to allow even cooking.
  • Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray or brush them with oil for extra crispiness.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the fries are crispy.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
  • Let the chicken tenders and fries cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch BBQ, or honey mustard for an extra flavor boost.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Tenders

  • Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispier finish.
  • Set Up Your Breading Station:
  • Bowl 1: Place the flour.
  • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
  • Bowl 3: Mix the breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the Chicken:
  • Dip each chicken strip into the flour, shaking off any excess.
  • Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off.
  • Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even, generous coating.

Step 2: Prepare the Fries

  • Soak the Potatoes: After cutting the potatoes into thin strips, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
  • Dry Thoroughly: Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Any moisture left can prevent them from crisping up.
  • Season the Fries: Toss the dried potato strips with olive oil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
  • Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
  • Place the breaded chicken tenders on one side of the sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
  • Spread the seasoned fries on the other side, ensuring they’re in a single layer.
  • Cook:
  • Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray or brush them with oil for extra crispiness.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken and fries halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, and the fries should be golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Let It Rest: Allow the chicken tenders and fries to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the coating set and keeps the chicken juicy.
  • Add Your Favorite Dips: Serve with classic dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle fresh parsley or grated Parmesan over the fries for a gourmet touch.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient Amount
Calories 450 kcal
Total Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 3g
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 4g
Sugar 2g
Sodium 600mg
Keyword Chicken Tenders and Fries, Comfort Food, Homemade Chicken Tenders