Nothing beats a plate of crispy chicken tenders and fries when you’re craving comfort food. This iconic dish is loved by both kids and adults for its crispy coating, juicy chicken, and perfectly seasoned fries.
Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? You’ll love this Forgotten Chicken Recipe — a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make homemade chicken tenders and fries that are just as good (if not better) than your favorite restaurant’s version. We’ll also cover common mistakes, flavor variations, and dipping sauce ideas to take your meal to the next level.
Introduction to Chicken Tenders and Fries
What makes chicken tenders and fries such a popular comfort food? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. You’ve got crispy, crunchy coating on the outside, tender and juicy chicken on the inside, and golden fries that are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
This meal isn’t just for kids. Adults love it too — because it brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to the table. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or game night, you can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleasing dish.
“Food is more than just sustenance; it’s about creating memories. And chicken tenders and fries? That’s a memory worth making!” 🍗🍟
What Are Chicken Tenders and Fries?
Before we get into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at what exactly chicken tenders and fries are.
The History of Chicken Tenders and Fries
The concept of fried chicken has been around for centuries, but chicken tenders as we know them today didn’t gain popularity until the mid-20th century. They were originally made from the tenderloin — the most tender part of the chicken breast — hence the name.
Meanwhile, fries date back to Belgium in the late 17th century. Today, fries are a global phenomenon, with each country putting its own twist on the classic fried potato.
Together, chicken tenders and fries became a staple in fast food restaurants and diners, quickly becoming a comfort food favorite across the world.
Why Are Chicken Tenders So Popular?
There’s a reason chicken tenders are a hit with both kids and adults:
- They’re easy to eat: No utensils required!
- They’re versatile: You can customize the breading, seasoning, and sauces.
- They’re satisfying: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — what’s not to love?
Fries, on the other hand, are the perfect sidekick. Whether you like them thin and crispy or thick and chunky, they add a salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the tenders.
Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Tenders and Fries
Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to make homemade chicken tenders and fries. While the basics are simple, choosing the right ingredients can make all the difference.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need for the chicken tenders:
- Chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts
- Flour for dredging
- Eggs to help the breading stick
- Breadcrumbs or panko for that crispy coating
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika
Want more tips for making restaurant-style meals at home? Try this Crawfish Cornbread Recipe for a unique Southern twist.
📝 Pro Tip: “For extra flavor, marinate your chicken in buttermilk before breading. It makes the tenders even juicier and more flavorful.”
Choosing the Right Type of Chicken
For the juiciest tenders, use chicken tenderloins. If you don’t have tenderloins, boneless chicken breasts cut into strips will work just as well.
Why tenderloins? They’re the most tender part of the chicken, which makes them ideal for frying or baking.
Best Seasonings and Breading Options
When it comes to breading, you have several options:
- Traditional breadcrumbs for a classic crispy coating
- Panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy texture
- Crushed cornflakes for a unique crunch
Season your breading with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to add a flavorful kick.
🧂 Chef’s Tip: “Want to spice things up? Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to your breading for a bit of heat.”
Ingredients for Perfectly Crispy Fries
For the fries, you’ll need:
- Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- Oil for frying (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)
- Salt to taste
Which Potatoes Work Best for Fries?
The best potatoes for fries are Russet potatoes because they’re high in starch and low in moisture, which results in crispy fries.
Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option if you prefer a creamier interior.
Choosing the Right Oil for Frying
When it comes to frying, choose an oil with a high smoke point:
- Canola oil
- Vegetable oil
- Peanut oil
Avoid olive oil for deep frying, as it has a low smoke point and can burn quickly.
📝 Pro Tip: “Double-fry your fries for extra crispiness. The first fry cooks the potato, and the second fry crisps up the exterior.”
How to Make Chicken Tenders and Fries: Step-by-Step Guide
Making homemade chicken tenders and fries is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to achieve crispy, golden tenders and perfectly cooked fries every time.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Tenders
The secret to great chicken tenders starts with proper preparation. Here’s how to get them ready for breading.
Instructions:
- Clean and cut the chicken: If you’re using boneless chicken breasts, cut them into even strips.
- Marinate the chicken: For extra flavor and juiciness, marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
📝 Pro Tip: “Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor that complements the crispy coating.”
Step 2: Breading the Chicken Tenders
The breading process is what gives chicken tenders their signature crunchy coating.
Breading Station Setup:
- Bowl 1: Flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs or panko for a crispy texture.
How to Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
- Roll it in the breadcrumbs or panko, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks.
🧂 Chef’s Tip: “For an extra-thick crust, double-dip the chicken by repeating the flour and egg steps.”
Step 3: Frying or Baking the Chicken Tenders
You can either fry or bake your chicken tenders, depending on your preference.
Option 1: Frying Method (for Extra Crunch)
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Option 2: Baking Method (for a Healthier Option)
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray with cooking oil for a crispy finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🍳 Pro Tip: “For air-fried tenders, cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.”
Step 4: Making the Perfect Fries
Now, let’s move on to the fries. Whether you prefer thick-cut steak fries or thin, crispy shoestring fries, here’s how to make them perfect every time.
Instructions:
- Peel and cut the potatoes into your desired fry shape.
- Soak the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch and ensure crispy fries.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly with a kitchen towel before frying.
Frying Method:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F (163°C).
- Fry the potatoes in batches for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft but not browned.
- Remove the fries from the oil and let them cool for 5 minutes.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes again for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
📝 Fun Fact: “The double-frying method is the secret to achieving restaurant-quality fries!”
Common Problems and Solutions When Making Chicken Tenders and Fries
Even the most experienced cooks can run into issues when making chicken tenders and fries. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Problem 1: Soggy Chicken Tenders
Why It Happens:
- The oil temperature is too low.
- The breading isn’t sticking properly.
Solution:
Double-fry your fries to ensure they’re crispy. Soak the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch.
For more tips on creating crispy side dishes, see Taco Potato Casserole.
📝 Pro Tip: “Use a cooking thermometer to keep your oil at the right temperature.”
Problem 2: Fries Are Too Greasy or Soft
Why It Happens:
- The oil temperature is too low.
- The fries weren’t dried properly before frying.
Solution:
- Double-fry your fries for a crispier texture.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly before frying to prevent oil absorption.
🍟 Chef’s Tip: “Sprinkle salt immediately after frying to ensure it sticks to the hot fries.”
Problem 3: Breading Falls Off the Chicken
Why It Happens:
- The chicken wasn’t dried properly before breading.
- The breading wasn’t pressed firmly enough.
Solution:
- Pat the chicken dry before breading.
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
📝 Fun Fact: “Adding a little cornstarch to the flour can help the breading stick better.”
Flavor Variations for Chicken Tenders and Fries
One of the best things about chicken tenders and fries is their versatility. You can customize the flavor to suit any craving, whether you prefer something spicy, savory, or sweet.
Spicy Chicken Tenders and Fries 🌶️
If you love heat, turn up the spice by adding chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your breading mixture.
How to Make It Spicy:
- Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper and 1 tsp of paprika to your flour mixture.
- Serve with spicy dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or Buffalo sauce.
- Garnish with jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
🔥 Pro Tip: “For an extra fiery twist, try coating your fries with spicy Cajun seasoning after frying.”
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders and Fries 🧄🧀
For a more savory flavor, garlic parmesan chicken tenders are a fantastic option. The buttery garlic sauce pairs perfectly with crispy fries.
How to Make It:
- After frying, toss the chicken tenders in melted butter mixed with minced garlic.
- Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add parsley for a fresh, herby touch.
📝 Fun Fact: “Garlic Parmesan fries are a popular side dish at many restaurants, and they’re easy to make at home!”
Sweet and Savory Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries 🍠
If you want a healthier, slightly sweeter option, sweet potato fries are a great choice. Pair them with honey mustard or maple syrup glaze for a sweet-savory combo.
How to Make It:
- Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon before baking or frying.
- Serve with honey mustard or maple glaze.
Dips and Sauces to Serve with Chicken Tenders and Fries
No chicken tenders and fries meal is complete without dipping sauces. Here are some classic and unique options to try.
Classic Dipping Sauces
- Ketchup
- Ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
- Honey mustard
These classic sauces are kid-friendly and perfect for a quick meal.
Unique Sauces to Try
- Sriracha Mayo: A mix of mayonnaise and sriracha for a spicy, creamy dip.
- Garlic Aioli: Made with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a bold flavor.
- Chipotle Sauce: A smoky, spicy dip made with chipotle peppers and adobo sauce.
📝 Pro Tip: “For a sweet twist, try honey BBQ sauce or maple Dijon mustard.”
How to Make Your Own Dipping Sauces
Simple Honey Mustard Recipe:
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- Mix until smooth.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Tenders and Fries
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your chicken tenders and fries without losing their crunch.
How to Store Leftovers Properly
- Let the chicken tenders and fries cool completely before storing.
- Place them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Best Methods to Reheat Without Losing Crunch
When reheating chicken tenders and fries, follow these tips to keep them crispy:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders and fries on a wire rack and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fryer Method: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave Method: Use sparingly, as it can make the tenders soggy. If you must use the microwave, place a paper towel under the tenders to absorb moisture.
📝 Pro Tip: “For an extra-crispy result, brush the tenders with a little oil before reheating.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions people have about chicken tenders and fries and how to make them perfectly every time.
Can I Make Chicken Tenders and Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders and fries ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them when ready to serve for a quick, easy meal.
What’s the Best Oil for Frying Chicken Tenders and Fries?
The best oils for frying are those with high smoke points, such as:
- Canola oil
- Vegetable oil
- Peanut oil
Avoid olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and can burn easily.
How Do I Prevent the Breading from Falling Off the Tenders?
To keep the breading from falling off:
- Pat the chicken dry before breading.
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken.
- Let the breaded tenders rest for 10 minutes before frying.
Can I Make Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free chicken tenders:
- Use gluten-free flour for the dredging step.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for the coating.
How Do I Keep My Fries Crispy for Longer?
To keep your fries crispy:
- Double-fry them for extra crunch.
- Drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
- Season immediately after frying to lock in flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it — a complete guide to making chicken tenders and fries! This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the flavor variations, these homemade tenders and fries are guaranteed to impress.
Ready to make your own batch? Grab your ingredients, follow this guide, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that everyone will love! 🍗🍟
“Food brings people together — and chicken tenders and fries? They’re the ultimate conversation starter!” 😊