Chicken tenders and fries is a classic combination that has been a favorite for many years. It’s a simple and delicious meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a snack to share with friends, chicken tenders and fries is the perfect choice.
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Making homemade chicken tenders and fries is not only easy but also healthier than buying them from a fast-food restaurant. By using fresh ingredients and cooking them yourself, you can control the amount of oil and seasoning used, making it a healthier option. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with family and friends, and you can customize the seasoning and dipping sauces to your liking.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious chicken tenders and fries at home. We will also share tips and tricks to make them crispy and flavorful, and suggest some tasty dipping sauces to elevate the dish. So, get ready to impress your taste buds with this mouth-watering recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
To make delicious chicken tenders, it is important to choose high-quality chicken breasts. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe. The chicken should be cut into long, thin strips that are about 1 inch wide.
Potatoes for Fries
The type of potato used for fries is crucial to the success of this recipe. Russet potatoes are the best choice because they are high in starch and low in moisture, which results in crispy fries. The potatoes should be peeled and cut into thin, even strips.
Breading and Seasonings
The breading for the chicken tenders should be made with a mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of your choice. The breading should be well-seasoned to add flavor to the chicken.
Oil for Frying
When it comes to frying, it’s important to choose the right oil. Vegetable oil or canola oil are good choices because they have a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. The oil should be heated to 375°F before adding the chicken tenders and fries.
By using high-quality ingredients and following these tips, you can make delicious chicken tenders and fries that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To make the perfect chicken tenders and fries, having the right kitchen tools and equipment is essential. Here are some of the must-haves:
Deep Fryer
A deep fryer is a must-have for making crispy chicken tenders and fries. It ensures that the food is cooked evenly and at the right temperature. A deep fryer also makes it easy to monitor the cooking process and adjust the temperature as needed.
Tongs
Tongs are essential for handling the chicken tenders and fries while they are cooking in the deep fryer. They allow you to flip the food without getting burned and ensure that the food is cooked evenly on all sides.
Baking Sheet
After the chicken tenders and fries are cooked, a baking sheet is needed to drain off any excess oil. It also helps to keep the food warm while you are cooking the rest of the batch.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are necessary for preparing the batter and coating for the chicken tenders. They also come in handy for mixing the spices and seasonings for the fries.
Thermometer
A thermometer is essential for ensuring that the oil is at the right temperature before cooking the chicken tenders and fries. It also helps to make sure that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
With these kitchen tools and equipment, you are well on your way to making the perfect chicken tenders and fries.
Preparing the Chicken Tenders
Trimming and Slicing
Before preparing the chicken tenders, it is important to trim any excess fat and remove the tendons. This will not only improve the texture of the chicken but also make it easier to slice into strips. Once trimmed, slice the chicken breasts into strips of approximately 1 inch in width.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken adds flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. For this recipe, a simple but flavorful marinade can be made by combining buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken strips in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Coating the Chicken
To achieve a crispy and flavorful coating, the chicken strips are coated in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each marinated chicken strip into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour before frying.
Overall, preparing the chicken tenders for this recipe requires some basic preparation steps such as trimming and slicing the chicken, marinating it for added flavor, and coating it with a flavorful mixture of flour and spices. These steps are crucial to ensure that the chicken tenders are juicy, tender, and crispy.
Making the Fries
Cutting the Potatoes
The first step in making crispy and delicious fries is to cut the potatoes into the desired shape. To achieve consistent results, it is recommended to use a mandoline or a french fry cutter. Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Soaking and Drying
Soaking the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before frying helps to remove excess starch and achieve a crispy texture. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel. Properly drying the potatoes is crucial to avoid splattering and ensure they cook evenly.
Seasoning the Fries
Seasoning the fries is a matter of personal preference, but a simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder can add a delicious flavor. Toss the dried potatoes with the seasoning mixture before frying or sprinkle it on top after frying. For an extra kick, try adding cayenne pepper or paprika to the seasoning mix.
By following these simple steps, anyone can make crispy and flavorful fries at home.
Cooking Process
Frying the Chicken Tenders
To start, heat up a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with oil to 375°F. While the oil is heating up, prepare the chicken tenders by coating them in a mixture of flour, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the chicken tenders in the fryer or pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the chicken tenders for 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken tenders from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Frying the Fries
Next, increase the temperature of the oil to 400°F. While the oil is heating up, cut the potatoes into thin strips and soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After the potatoes have soaked, drain them and pat them dry with a paper towel. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the fries in the fryer or pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the fries for 3-4 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown. Remove the fries from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Draining and Resting
After frying both the chicken tenders and fries, it is important to drain them properly to remove excess oil. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken tenders and fries from the paper towel-lined plate to a wire rack. Allow the chicken tenders and fries to rest on the wire rack for 2-3 minutes before serving. This will help ensure that they are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve the chicken tenders and fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Plating
When it comes to plating chicken tenders and fries, there are a few different approaches that can be taken. One option is to arrange the tenders and fries on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves. Another option is to serve them in individual baskets or on plates. Whichever method is chosen, it’s important to make sure the tenders and fries are arranged in an attractive manner. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a lemon wedge to add a pop of color.
Dipping Sauces
Chicken tenders and fries are the perfect vehicles for a variety of dipping sauces. Classic options include ketchup, honey mustard, and ranch dressing, but there are many other options to choose from. Barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, and garlic aioli are just a few examples. Consider offering a variety of sauces to please all palates.
Side Dishes
While chicken tenders and fries are a satisfying meal on their own, they can also be paired with a variety of side dishes. A simple side salad is a great option for those looking for a healthier accompaniment. Other options include coleslaw, baked beans, or mac and cheese. Consider offering a few different side dishes to add variety to the meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
When it comes to storing chicken tenders and fries, it is important to do so properly to maintain their quality and freshness. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Store chicken tenders and fries separately in airtight containers or resealable bags.
- Keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- To freeze, place them in airtight containers or resealable bags and store in the freezer for up to two months.
To reheat chicken tenders and fries, there are a few methods you can use:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the chicken tenders and fries on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place the chicken tenders and fries on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and place the chicken tenders and fries in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
It is important to note that reheating chicken tenders and fries may cause them to become slightly less crispy, but they should still be delicious and satisfying.
Nutritional Information for Chicken tenders and fries
When it comes to chicken tenders and fries, it’s important to keep in mind the nutritional information. While this dish is undoubtedly delicious, it’s also high in calories, fat, and sodium.
A serving of chicken tenders and fries typically contains around 800-1000 calories, depending on the portion size and cooking method. This is a significant amount of calories, especially if you’re trying to maintain a healthy diet. In addition, this dish is high in fat, with around 40-60 grams per serving. Most of this fat comes from the frying process, which can make the chicken and fries crispy and delicious, but also adds a lot of calories and unhealthy fats.
Another concern with chicken tenders and fries is the sodium content. A serving can contain up to 2000 milligrams of sodium, which is more than the recommended daily intake for most adults. This can be problematic for people with high blood pressure or other health issues that require a low-sodium diet.
However, there are ways to make chicken tenders and fries a bit healthier. Baking or air-frying the chicken and fries can reduce the amount of fat and calories, while still providing that crispy texture. Using whole-grain breading or coating the chicken in egg whites instead of whole eggs can also make a difference. Additionally, swapping regular fries for sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables can add some extra nutrients and fiber to the meal.
Overall, while chicken tenders and fries can be a tasty treat, it’s important to be aware of the nutritional information and make choices that fit into a balanced diet.