Chicken Tenders and Fries

Chicken tenders and fries are a beloved comfort food that appeals to many. This recipe offers a versatile approach so you can choose the method that fits your lifestyle and kitchen setup. Whether you are in the mood for a crunchy deep-fried meal or a healthier oven-baked or air-fried version, this guide provides clear instructions and practical tips. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of a well-cooked dish that features tender chicken pieces and crispy fries. The recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring every step is easy to follow and results in a meal you can be proud of.

What You’ll Need for This Chicken Tenders and Fries Recipe

The quality of your ingredients plays a vital role in the final taste and texture of the dish. In this recipe, fresh and carefully selected items are used to create a balanced meal. Below is a comprehensive list of the ingredients needed for both the chicken tenders and the fries.

For the Chicken Tenders:

• Chicken Breast or Tenderloins: Choose fresh, boneless pieces. An estimated 1 to 1.5 pounds is enough to serve four people.
• Buttermilk or Plain Yogurt: About 1 cup to help tenderize and add a tangy flavor.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 to 1.5 cups for the breading process.
• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, which can be seasoned or plain.
• Spices: Salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust amounts to taste.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or thyme for added flavor.

For the Fries:

• Potatoes: 3 to 4 medium potatoes, such as Russet or Yukon Gold.
• Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil: 2 to 3 tablespoons for coating.
• Salt and Pepper: To season.
• Additional Seasonings: Optional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or dried rosemary.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Low-Fat Alternatives: Use non-dairy yogurt and reduce oil quantities.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or oregano for the chicken and fries.

Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment

Having the proper tools on hand streamlines the cooking process and enhances your overall experience. Below is a list of the must-have items you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: At least three bowls for marinating, breading, and holding the final mixture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: They help achieve precise ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For slicing the potatoes and preparing the chicken.
• Baking sheet or tray: Ideal for oven-cooking the tenders and fries.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for achieving a crispy, deep-fried finish on both the chicken and fries.
• Air Fryer (if available): An excellent alternative to achieve a crispy texture with less oil.
• Tongs and Spatula: Useful for flipping the tenders and fries during cooking.
• Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from fried items.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. Marination:
   Start by placing the chicken pieces in a spacious mixing bowl. Pour one cup of buttermilk or plain yogurt over them, then add a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, and a dusting of garlic and onion powders. Let the chicken marinate for at least one hour to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor.
2. Setting Up the Breading Station:
   Set up three separate bowls. In the first, combine the flour with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika. In the second bowl, whisk two large eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, blend the breadcrumbs with any extra herbs or spices you like.
3. Breading Process:
   Take the chicken out of the marinade and allow the extra liquid to drain off. Then, coat each piece in the seasoned flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and evenly cover it with the breadcrumb mixture. For added crunch, you may repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Preparing the Fries

1. Selecting and Cutting Potatoes:
   Select firm, starchy potatoes for optimal results. Rinse them thoroughly and cut into uniformly sized strips or wedges to ensure consistent thickness for even cooking.
2. Seasoning:
   Transfer the sliced potatoes to a large bowl, drizzle with olive or vegetable oil, then add salt, pepper, and your chosen spices. Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated.
3. Pre-Cooking Tips:
   For enhanced crispiness, try soaking the potato slices in cold water for 30 minutes to draw out extra starch. After soaking, drain them thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.

Assembling the Dish

1. Arrange Your Ingredients:
   Depending on your chosen cooking method, decide if you will cook the chicken and fries separately or on the same tray. If using the oven or air fryer, consider cooking them together with careful placement to ensure even cooking.
2. Final Preparation:
   Preheat your oven, deep fryer, or air fryer to the proper temperature, and confirm that all ingredients and tools are ready. This preparation will help ensure a smooth cooking process without any interruptions.

Cooking Methods and Instructions

Deep-Frying Method

1. Heating the Oil:
   Fill a deep fryer or large, heavy pot with vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.
2. Frying the Chicken Tenders:
   Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them in small batches to avoid crowding the pot. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until the tenders are golden brown and fully cooked. Use tongs to turn the pieces for even frying.
3. Frying the Fries:
   Once the chicken tenders are done, use a similar process for the fries. Fry them in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a crispy, light brown color. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Safety Tips:
   Always monitor the oil temperature and never leave hot oil unattended. Use a deep-fry thermometer and maintain a safe workspace to prevent burns or accidents.

Oven-Baking Method

1. Preheating the Oven:
   Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures a consistent cooking temperature and a crisp finish.
2. Baking the Chicken Tenders:
   Place the breaded chicken tenders on a greased baking sheet. Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray to help them brown. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
3. Baking the Fries:
   Spread the seasoned potato pieces on another baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through. Check that the fries are golden and crisp. For added crunch, you can broil them for an extra 2 minutes at the end.
4. Even Cooking:
   Use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet if available. This allows air circulation around the chicken and fries, promoting a crisper texture without the need for deep frying.

Air Fryer Method

1. Preparing the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This method uses less oil, making it a healthier option without sacrificing texture.
2. Cooking the Chicken Tenders:
   Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through. The result should be a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior.
3. Cooking the Fries:
   Add the potato slices to the basket. Air fry for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fries.
4. Comparing Methods:
   The air fryer offers a balance between health and taste. It uses less oil while still delivering a satisfying crunch, making it an ideal choice for everyday cooking.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Tenders and Fries

Achieving restaurant-quality chicken tenders and fries is within your reach with these simple tips and tricks:

• Marination Duration:
  Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour. This step softens the meat and infuses it with flavor. For a deeper taste, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator.
• Breading Consistency:
  Ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This not only helps lock in moisture but also creates a satisfying crunch when cooked.
• Potato Selection:
  Choose starchy potatoes such as Russet for fries. They crisp up nicely and have a light texture when cooked properly. Soaking the potatoes helps remove extra starch, resulting in a crisper fry.
• Oil Temperature:
  When deep-frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F. This prevents the food from absorbing too much oil while ensuring a crispy texture.
• Batch Cooking:
  Cook in small batches. Crowding the pan or fryer can cause the temperature to drop and lead to uneven cooking. This applies to both chicken tenders and fries.
• Experimenting with Spices:
  Try different seasoning blends to give your dish a unique twist. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a subtle kick, while dried herbs can add freshness to both components.
• Dipping Sauces:
  Enhance the meal with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider options such as honey mustard, garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or even a simple squeeze of lemon.
• Resting Time:
  Let the cooked chicken and fries rest on paper towels for a couple of minutes. This helps remove excess oil and retains the crispness.

Serving Suggestions

• Balanced Meal:
  Pair your chicken tenders and fries with a side salad or steamed vegetables. The addition of greens or other vegetables boosts the meal’s nutritional profile and adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
• Dipping Sauces:
  Serve with a variety of sauces on the side. Options include tangy barbecue sauce, a light garlic aioli, or a homemade honey mustard.
• Garnishes:
  Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the chicken tenders and fries before serving. A squeeze of lemon can add brightness and balance the richness of the dish.
• Portion Control:
  Adjust the serving size based on your dietary needs. This meal works well for a hearty lunch or dinner and can be complemented with a small portion of fruit or a light dessert if desired.

Conclusion

This chicken tenders and fries recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal that anyone can enjoy. With clear, straightforward steps, you can achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor while creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

We encourage you to explore our Main dishes category for more creative recipes. Whether you’re looking for hearty dinners or exciting new meal ideas, our collection is designed to inspire your cooking journey and help you make every meal a success.

Enjoy your cooking, and happy eating!

Chicken Tenders and Fries

Enjoy the perfect combination of tender chicken and crispy fries with our Chicken Tenders and Fries recipe. Easy-to-follow steps and versatile cooking methods—deep-frying, oven baking, or air frying—ensure a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American Comfort Food

Servings 4 People

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 to 1.5 lbs Chicken breast or tenderloins
• 1 Cup Buttermilk or plain yogurt
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 to 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 Cup Breadcrumbs
• Salt black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
• Fresh herbs optional, such as parsley or thyme

For the Fries:

• 3 to 4 Potatoes such as Russet or Yukon Gold
• 2 to 3 tbsp Olive oil or vegetable oil tablespoons
• Salt and pepper
• Optional spices e.g., paprika, garlic powder, dried rosemary

Instructions

 

Marinate Chicken:

• Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour in the buttermilk or yogurt, add a pinch of salt, black pepper, garlic, and onion powders. Let marinate for at least 1 hour.

Prepare Breading Station:

• Set up three bowls:
• Bowl 1: Combine flour with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
• Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs with any optional herbs or additional spices.

Bread the Chicken:

• Remove the chicken from the marinade, let excess liquid drip off, then coat each piece in the flour, dip in egg, and finally cover evenly with breadcrumbs. Repeat for extra crunch if desired.

Prepare the Fries:

• Wash and cut potatoes into evenly sized strips or wedges. Toss them in a bowl with oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices.

Optional Fry Prep:

• For extra crispiness, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.

Preheat Cooking Appliance:

• Preheat your oven, deep fryer, or air fryer to the appropriate temperature.

Cook the Dish:

• Deep-Frying: Fry chicken tenders and fries in small batches until golden and cooked through, ensuring even cooking.
• Oven-Baking: Arrange the chicken and fries on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake until crispy, flipping halfway through.
• Air Frying: Arrange in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook, turning halfway through for even browning.

Final Touches:

• Drain excess oil (if fried), garnish as desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Keyword Chicken Tenders and Fries

FAQs

How can I ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying it out?
Marinating the chicken helps maintain moisture. Cooking in small batches and monitoring the temperature, whether deep frying, baking, or air frying, prevents overcooking. Using a meat thermometer ensures the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What type of potatoes works best for fries?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they have a higher starch content that creates a crisp texture. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a slightly creamier texture if you prefer a softer bite.

Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Yes. You can marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the potato slices ahead of time. If you choose to bake or air fry, preheating the appliance when you are ready to cook is recommended.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crisp texture.

What dipping sauce pairs best with this meal?
A variety of sauces work well. Honey mustard provides a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, while a garlic aioli or barbecue sauce offers a rich and savory complement.

Is this recipe adaptable for a gluten-free diet?
Certainly. Replace the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives while keeping the overall process unchanged.