How to Make Perfect Chicken Tenders with Fries: Tips and Recipes

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

What Are Chicken Tenders with Fries?

Crispy chicken tenders and fries

At its core, chicken tenders with fries consist of tender, breaded chicken strips that are either deep-fried or oven-baked until they achieve a crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Chicken tenders, often referred to as “strips” or “fingers,” are typically made from the tenderloin portion of the chicken, which is known for its natural tenderness and mild flavor. This cut of chicken allows the dish to remain juicy and flavorful, even after cooking.

On the side, crispy fries serve as the perfect accompaniment. Whether you prefer thin-cut, crinkle-cut, or steak fries, they complement the chicken tenders with their savory, salty goodness. Fries can be seasoned with classic salt or dressed up with spices, herbs, or cheese for added flair.

This dish’s universal appeal lies in its versatility. It can be served as a snack, a meal, or even a party platter, making it a staple in restaurants and households alike. To complete your meal, consider pairing chicken tenders with fries with a delightful dessert like ourNestle Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe“. The combination of chicken tenders with fries is more than just a meal—it’s a timeless favorite.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Tenders with Fries

Ingredients for chicken tenders and fries

Ingredients for Chicken Tenders

  1. Chicken Tenderloins
    The star of the dish, chicken tenderloins, are prized for their tenderness and mild flavor. You can also use chicken breasts sliced into strips as an alternative.
  2. Flour
    A base for coating, flour ensures the chicken tenders achieve a light, crispy crust.
  3. Eggs
    Beaten eggs act as a binding agent, helping the coating stick to the chicken effectively.
  4. Breadcrumbs or Panko
    For an extra crunchy texture, breadcrumbs or panko are essential. They can be plain or seasoned, depending on your preference.
  5. Spices and Seasonings
    Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper are common seasonings that add depth to the chicken’s flavor.

Ingredients for Fries

  1. Potatoes
    Fresh, starchy potatoes like Russet are ideal for making fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
  2. Oil for Frying
    Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil are best for frying both the chicken and fries.
  3. Salt
    Classic table salt or sea salt enhances the fries’ natural flavor.

Optional Additions

  • Dipping Sauces: Barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch elevate the meal.
  • Herbs: Parsley or thyme can be sprinkled over the fries for a gourmet touch.
  • Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness to the fries.

By starting with these essential ingredients, you’ll have everything needed to create the iconic chicken tenders with fries that everyone loves.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Tenders with Fries

Preparing chicken tenders with fries at home is straightforward with this simple process to achieve perfectly crispy results.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Tools
Ensure all ingredients and tools are ready, including chicken tenderloins, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, seasonings, potatoes, oil, and salt. Have mixing bowls, a frying pan or fryer, a baking sheet, and tongs available.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Slice chicken breasts into even strips if not using tenderloins. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, and onion powder. Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs or panko, seasoned lightly. Coat each strip in flour, dip in eggs, and cover with breadcrumbs, pressing firmly for an even coating.

Step 3: Prepare the Fries
Wash and peel potatoes, cutting them into your desired fry shape. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove starch, ensuring crispier results. Drain and pat dry with a clean towel.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Heat oil in a fryer or pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in small batches for 3–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Cook the Fries
Fry potatoes at 325°F (160°C) for 4–5 minutes to soften. Let them rest, then fry again at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy. Season immediately with salt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the chicken tenders with fries alongside dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or ketchup for a delicious meal. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan for added flair.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders with Fries

Cooking chicken tenders and fries

Mastering chicken tenders with fries is easier with a few expert tips to elevate your cooking and ensure consistent results every time.

Choose Quality Ingredients
Always use fresh chicken tenderloins for the best texture and flavor. If unavailable, slice chicken breasts into uniform strips. For fries, opt for starchy potatoes like Russet for the crispiest finish.

Season Layers for Maximum Flavor
Add seasoning to each breading layer (flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs). This ensures the chicken tenders with fries are flavorful in every bite, not just on the surface.

Double-Coat for Extra Crunch
For even crispier chicken, dip the strips in eggs and breadcrumbs twice. This second coating creates a thicker, crunchier crust.

Soak and Dry Potatoes Thoroughly
Soaking potatoes removes excess starch, leading to crispier fries. Dry them completely before frying to avoid oil splatter and uneven cooking.

Use the Right Oil Temperature
Maintain consistent oil temperature for both chicken and fries. Use a kitchen thermometer to keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for chicken and 375°F (190°C) for the final fry on potatoes.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Frying in small batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping, ensuring even cooking and crisp results. Overcrowding can lead to soggy tenders and fries.

Keep Fries Warm
After frying, keep fries warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) while preparing other batches. This prevents them from losing their crispness.

Experiment with Dips
Elevate your meal with unique dipping sauces like sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or honey barbecue. Adding a variety of sauces keeps your chicken tenders with fries exciting every time.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Tenders with Fries

Proper storage and reheating methods can help maintain the quality of your chicken tenders with fries, ensuring they remain flavorful and crispy even after being stored.

Storing Chicken Tenders

  • Allow chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. Placing hot food in a container can cause condensation, leading to sogginess.
  • Store the tenders in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
  • Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Storing Fries

  • Like chicken, let fries cool completely before storing.
  • Place them in a paper towel-lined container to prevent excess moisture buildup.
  • Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Fries don’t freeze as well as chicken due to their texture, but you can freeze them if needed.

Reheating Chicken Tenders

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Arrange tenders on a baking sheet with a wire rack for even reheating. Bake for 10–15 minutes until they are crispy and heated through. For smaller portions, use an air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Reheating Fries

  • Reheat fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • An air fryer is ideal for restoring crispness; heat at 375°F for 5–6 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as fries will become soft and lose their crunch.

By following these tips, you can enjoy chicken tenders with fries as if they were freshly made!

Conclusion: Why You Will Love Chicken Tenders with Fries

You’ll love the way the crispy, golden coating on the chicken tenders locks in the juicy, tender meat. Every bite bursts with seasoned perfection, making it hard to stop at just one. Paired with the salty, crispy goodness of fries, the dish offers a harmonious blend of crunch and savoriness that is undeniably comforting.

What makes chicken tenders with fries even more appealing is their versatility. You can tailor the dish to your taste by experimenting with seasonings, breading styles, or even trying baked or air-fried versions for a healthier twist. Add a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy barbecue, and you’ll never tire of the endless flavor combinations.

Beyond its taste, this dish is easy to prepare and universally appreciated by both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or craving comfort food on a quiet night, chicken tenders with fries fit the occasion perfectly. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, it’s no wonder this meal remains a timeless favorite for so many.

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Crispy chicken tenders and fries

Chicken Tenders with Fries


  • Author: Chloe
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy recipe for chicken tenders with fries delivers crispy, golden chicken and perfectly seasoned fries every time. A delicious, family-friendly meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or sliced chicken breast)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Fries:

  • 4 medium Russet potatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken tenderloins with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Set Up the Breading Station: Fill three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  • Bread the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside.
  • Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut potatoes into fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  • Cook the Fries: Fry potatoes in two stages: 325°F (160°C) for 5 minutes to soften, then 375°F (190°C) until crispy and golden.
  • Serve: Arrange chicken tenders with fries on a plate. Add dipping sauces like ketchup or honey mustard, and garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For a healthier version, bake or air fry the tenders and fries.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 560
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g

Keywords: Chicken tenders with fries, crispy chicken tenders, homemade fries, family dinner

FAQs

Are chicken tenders and fries unhealthy?

Chicken tenders and fries can be unhealthy if deep-fried and consumed in large quantities due to high fat and calorie content. However, healthier options like baking or air frying significantly reduce oil usage while still achieving crispiness. Choosing whole, fresh ingredients and pairing them with a salad or vegetables helps balance the meal. Moderation is key to keeping this dish part of a healthy diet.

Can I cook chicken tenders and fries together in an air fryer?

Yes, chicken tenders with fries can be cooked together in an air fryer, but even cooking requires proper spacing. Arrange them in a single layer without overlapping to allow air to circulate. If space is limited, cook in batches. Both tenders and fries typically cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, but flipping or shaking halfway ensures crisp, even results.

What is the best way to fry chicken tenders?

For the best results, deep-fry chicken tenders in oil heated to 350°F (175°C). Fully submerge tenders in small batches to prevent overcrowding and sogginess. Fry for 3–5 minutes until golden brown and ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Are chicken fries just chicken tenders?

No, chicken fries are smaller, thinner strips, often shaped like fries, and may include processed chicken meat. Chicken tenders are thicker, made from whole tenderloins, offering a meatier and more substantial texture. Both are breaded and fried but differ in preparation and form.

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