Chicken Tender Recipes

12 Delicious Chicken Tender Recipes Perfect for Kids

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Chicken tenders are a hit with kids and parents alike! These 12 easy recipes transform this beloved snack into fun and flavorful options that are perfect for lunchboxes, after-school treats, or family movie nights. From classic breading to creative flavors, there’s something here to satisfy every little palate.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Buffalo chicken tenders served with celery and dipping sauce

Buffalo chicken tenders are a fun and tasty twist on a classic favorite. They are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

These tenders are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Pair them with celery sticks and a side of ranch dressing for dipping, and you’ve got a delicious snack everyone will crave!

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Plate of honey mustard chicken tenders with fries and dipping sauce

Honey mustard chicken tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike. The blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a tasty coating that perfectly complements the tender chicken. This recipe is simple enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner or serve at a fun snack time with friends.

These chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a crowd favorite. Pair them with some fresh veggies or fries for a complete meal. Plus, they can be made in just a few easy steps, so you can enjoy these delicious bites in no time!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for baking

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dip each chicken tender into the honey mustard mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, flipping halfway through.

BBQ Chicken Tenders

BBQ chicken tenders on a black plate garnished with herbs

BBQ chicken tenders are a tasty twist on the classic chicken recipe that kids absolutely love. These tenders are juicy and flavorful, coated in a rich barbecue sauce that adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun snack for any gathering.

With a crispy exterior and a tender inside, these chicken tenders can be served with your child’s favorite dipping sauces or alongside fresh veggies. They’re sure to become a go-to recipe that everyone in the family enjoys!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Set up a dredging station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Dip each chicken tender in the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Place the coated tenders on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. In the last few minutes of baking, brush the tenders with BBQ sauce. Serve warm with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy oven-baked chicken tenders served with dipping sauce and fresh vegetables

Crispy oven-baked chicken tenders are a fantastic snack that kids and adults alike will enjoy. These tenders are juicy on the inside and have a crunchy coating that makes them irresistible. The best part? You can easily whip them up at home without much fuss!

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This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick after-school snack. The flavor is mild enough to please picky eaters, while the crispy texture makes them fun to eat. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate kid-friendly treat!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into tenders
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders on a wooden board with lemon wedges

Parmesan crusted chicken tenders are a kid-friendly snack that packs a punch of flavor. These crispy, golden bites have a delightful cheesy coating, making them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time!

The tender chicken is enveloped in a crunchy layer of parmesan and breadcrumbs, creating a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also offers a great way to get children involved in the kitchen!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
  4. Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mix.
  5. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
  7. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Sweet and Sour Chicken Tenders

A plate of sweet and sour chicken tenders served with pineapple and bell peppers.

Sweet and sour chicken tenders are a fun twist on a classic favorite. They combine the crispy crunch of tender chicken with a tangy, sweet sauce that’s sure to please the little ones. This dish is not only tasty but also super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or kid-friendly snacks.

The sweetness of the sauce paired with the savory chicken creates a delightful flavor that kids love. Serve them with a side of rice or veggies, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  2. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first in the flour, then in the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure they are well covered.
  3. Fry the Tenders: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a separate pan, heat the sweet and sour sauce. Add pineapple chunks and diced red bell pepper. Cook for a few minutes until heated through.
  5. Serve: Place the fried chicken tenders on a platter, drizzle the sweet and sour sauce over them, and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy!
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Coconut Chicken Tenders

Coconut chicken tenders with dipping sauces on a plate

Coconut chicken tenders are a delicious twist on a classic favorite, perfect for kids and adults alike. The crunchy coconut coating adds a tropical flair, while the tender chicken inside remains juicy and flavorful. These tenders are super simple to make, making them ideal for busy weeknights or fun family gatherings.

Kids will love the sweet coconut flavor, and you can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces to keep things exciting. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option that still satisfies everyone’s cravings.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Your favorite dipping sauces

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well mixed.
  4. In a third bowl, mix together the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with the coconut-panko mixture.
  6. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!

Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

Plate of Mediterranean chicken tenders garnished with herbs and served with a dipping sauce.

Mediterranean chicken tenders are a tasty twist on a classic favorite, perfect for kids who love to snack. With vibrant flavors coming from herbs and spices, these tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They’re simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, making them ideal for busy weeknights or a fun lunch idea.

The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs gives these tenders a delightful Mediterranean flair. Pair them with a yogurt-based dipping sauce for a refreshing touch that even picky eaters will love!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and add lemon juice.
  4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders

Oven-fried chicken tenders served with a dipping sauce.

Oven-fried chicken tenders are a delicious alternative to traditional frying, offering a crispy texture with less guilt. These tenders are seasoned perfectly, making them a hit for kids and adults alike. Plus, they are super easy to prepare, requiring just a few steps to get them ready for baking.

With a flavorful coating that gets golden brown in the oven, these chicken tenders are not only tasty but also versatile. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a snack or alongside veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy the crunch without the mess of frying!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and add flavor.
  3. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
  5. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

Cheesy Chicken Tenders

Cheesy chicken tenders on a plate with sauce

Cheesy chicken tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These tenders are crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and topped with melted cheese that brings a rich, savory flavor to every bite. Kids love the gooey cheese, making this dish a surefire hit for snack time or dinner.

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Making cheesy chicken tenders is straightforward and doesn’t require too much time in the kitchen. You can whip them up quickly, even on a busy weeknight, and serve them with your child’s favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch of fun!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a shallow bowl, set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat each chicken tender in flour, dip in the eggs, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  4. Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet and top each with shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray, then bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Spicy Nacho Chicken Tenders

Spicy Nacho Chicken Tenders served with salsa and garnished with jalapeños and cheese.

Spicy Nacho Chicken Tenders are a fun twist on a classic snack that’s sure to please kids and adults alike. These crispy chicken strips are topped with zesty nacho cheese, tangy salsa, and jalapeños, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for a quick meal or an after-school snack.

The combination of crunchy coating and cheesy goodness creates a delightful experience, while the spicy kick can be adjusted to suit your family’s taste. Serve them with a side of salsa or ranch dressing for dipping, and you’ve got a hit on your hands!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for baking

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil.
  2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
  3. Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking oil to help them crisp up.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Remove from the oven and top each tender with a spoonful of salsa and a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
  6. Finally, garnish with sliced jalapeños before serving. Enjoy your Spicy Nacho Chicken Tenders warm!

Vegetable-Stuffed Chicken Tenders

Crispy vegetable-stuffed chicken tenders filled with colorful veggies

Vegetable-stuffed chicken tenders are a tasty way to sneak some healthy veggies into a kid-friendly snack. These crispy, golden chicken tenders are filled with colorful vegetables, making them not only appealing to the eyes but also deliciously satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

With a crunchy exterior and a flavorful veggie filling, these chicken tenders pair well with various dipping sauces. They make a great finger food for parties or a fun dinner option. Plus, kids will love the surprise inside!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, and carrots)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Chop your mixed vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Take a chicken tender and flatten it slightly with a meat mallet. Place a spoonful of mixed veggies in the center and roll it up tightly.
  5. Dip the rolled chicken tenders in the beaten egg, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they’re well-covered.
  6. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken tenders and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  7. Transfer the cooked tenders to a baking sheet and finish baking in the oven for an additional 10 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!