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Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.7 from 131 reviews

Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crunchy and flavorful chicken strips coated with a savory blend of panko breadcrumbs, cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, and spices. These tender bites are marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce for extra moisture and tang, then baked or air-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish served with your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenders or breast strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

For the Coating:

  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenders with buttermilk and hot sauce, if using. Mix well so each piece is fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  2. Prepare Coating: In one bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Dip each marinated chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then press the chicken into the breadcrumb and cornflake mixture, coating evenly and pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
  4. Bake or Air-Fry the Chicken: For baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated chicken tenders on a wire rack set over a baking tray to allow air circulation underneath. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden and crispy. For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
  5. Serve: Remove the tenders from the oven or air fryer and serve immediately while hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.

Notes

  • Marinating in buttermilk helps keep the chicken moist and tender.
  • Crushed cornflakes add an extra crispy texture to the coating mix.
  • You can substitute buttermilk with milk plus lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
  • Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference for spice and salt.
  • Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.
  • Using a wire rack during baking helps crisp the chicken all around.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/crispy-crack-chicken-tenders-recipe/