Description
Indulge in these incredibly delicious Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, featuring a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. They are wonderfully crispy on the outside and unbelievably juicy within, making for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut and pounded thin)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free blend)
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk or water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil (for pan-frying)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Chicken: If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch thick strips and pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness. Pat all chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- 2. Set Up Breading Stations: In a shallow dish, whisk eggs and milk/water. In another shallow dish, combine flour, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- 3. Bread Tenders: Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour again, pressing to adhere. Place breaded tenders on a plate or wire rack.
- Pan-Fry: Heat 1/2 inch oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Oven Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tenders on a lightly greased baking sheet or wire rack. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- 5. Rest and Serve: Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure maximum juiciness. Serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins