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Crispy Chicken Tenders & Fries with Spicy Dip

Enjoy crispy chicken tenders paired with crunchy fries and a zesty dipping sauce, perfect for family gatherings and creating cherished memories.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders

  • 500 g chicken tenders These are your stars of the meal. They’re tender and juicy, making them perfect for frying.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a lovely tang.
  • 1 tsp salt Enhances the flavors.
  • 1 tsp black pepper Brings warmth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Adds flavor.
  • 1 tsp paprika Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) Add more for heat.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Creates the base for crispy coating.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Use panko for extra crunch.
  • 2 large eggs Helps the flour and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
  • Vegetable oil For frying, enough to cover the base of the pan.

For the Fries

  • 3 large potatoes (cut into fries) Russet potatoes hold up well during cooking.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Helps fries get crispy.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika Adds flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Complements the fries.
  • Salt & pepper to taste Simple seasoning.

For the Spicy Dipping Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Forms the creamy base.
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce Adjust according to your heat preference.
  • 1 tsp honey Balances the heat.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Adds more flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika Adds depth.
  • 1 tsp lemon juice Brightens the sauce.

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken

  • In a large bowl, mix together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne. Add chicken tenders and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.

Coating the Chicken

  • Set out three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  • Dip each chicken tender in flour, shake off excess, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Chicken

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Test with a piece of bread; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
  • Cook chicken tenders in batches for about 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown. Place on paper towels to drain.

Bake the Fries

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss cut potatoes in a bowl with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Spread fries on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make the Spicy Dipping Sauce

  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice until combined. Adjust spiciness as needed.

Serve

  • Arrange chicken tenders on a plate with fries and serve with spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Ensure the oil is hot before frying and don't rush the marinating process for juicier chicken. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 900mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g
Keyword Comfort Food, Crispy Chicken Tenders, Family Recipe, Fries, Spicy Dip
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