Quick & Easy 15 Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders Recipe
As a busy parent, getting a tasty meal ready can be tough, especially on weeknights. But, I’ve found a way to make crispy, flavorful chicken tenders in just 15 minutes. This spicy chicken tenders recipe is a game-changer. It’s perfect for busy nights and loved by everyone in your family.
Table of Contents
The Perfect Weeknight Dinner Solution
Weeknights can be busy, making it hard to find time for a tasty meal. That’s why quick dinner ideas like spicy chicken dishes are great. This quick chicken tenders recipe is perfect for weeknights. It’s flavorful, customizable, and ready in just 15 minutes.
Benefits of Quick Chicken Recipes
Chicken is great for quick meals because it’s versatile. Quick chicken recipes save time and are healthy. Chicken has lots of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a good choice for dinner.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This spicy chicken tenders recipe is special for a few reasons. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 15 minutes. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking. Plus, the chicken gets crispy from a simple coating and frying.
The buttermilk marinade makes the chicken tender and flavorful. It adds juiciness and taste. You can even cook it differently, like pan-frying or air frying, making it flexible for your dinner plans.
This spicy chicken tenders recipe is ideal for weeknights. It’s fast, customizable, and crispy. Enjoy a tasty meal without spending too much time cooking.
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
To make the perfect spicy chicken tender recipes at home, you need a few key things. Start with fresh, high-quality chicken tenderloins. Then, mix them with buttermilk for flavor and spices like paprika, cayenne, and Cajun seasoning for heat.
You’ll also need some basic tools. A meat mallet tenderizes the chicken, and mixing bowls help mix the marinade and breading. For frying, use a cast-iron skillet or deep fryer for even cooking. A kitchen thermometer is key to check the oil and chicken’s doneness.
Choosing fresh spices and quality chicken tender recipes is crucial. It makes your dish bold and delicious. Adding a pinch of MSG can also add depth to the flavor.
| Ingredients | Kitchen Tools |
|---|---|
|
|
With these basics, you’re set to make delicious spicy chicken tenders in your kitchen.
15 Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders Recipe
Get ready for the ultimate crispy chicken tenders experience. This 15-minute recipe is packed with bold flavors and a crunchy coating. It’s the perfect quick and satisfying easy chicken dinner.
Marinade and Seasoning Mix
Begin by marinating the chicken tenders in tangy buttermilk and aromatic spices. This tenderizes the meat and adds delicious flavor. Let the chicken soak for 10-15 minutes to absorb the spices.
Coating and Frying Instructions
Then, mix a seasoned flour for a crispy coating. Dredge the chicken in flour, then egg wash, and flour again for extra crunch. Fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes per side, until it reaches 165°F.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
Keeping the oil at 375°F is key for even cooking. Watch the oil temperature closely and adjust as needed. The double-dredging creates a thick, crispy crust.
“These 15 minute recipes for crispy chicken tenders are a game-changer for busy weeknights. The quick marinade and crunchy coating make for an unbeatable meal in no time.”
Secret Tips for Crispy Chicken Tenders
Making crispy chicken tenders is an art. With these secret tips, you’ll get better at it. Whether baking, air frying, or frying chicken tenders, these tips will make your food irresistibly crunchy.
- Use Cornstarch for Extra Crunch: Mix cornstarch with all-purpose flour for breading. Cornstarch makes the outside shatteringly crisp. The flour adds structure and flavor.
- Double Coat for Thicker Crust: Double dipping in breading makes the crust thicker and crunchier. It stays crunchy even after cooking.
- Keep the Oil at 350°F: When frying chicken tenders, keep the oil at 350°F. Fluctuations in temperature can make the tenders greasy and soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Don’t put too many chicken tenders in the pan or air fryer. Overcrowding lowers the temperature, leading to less crispiness.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, let your crispy chicken tenders rest on a wire rack. This prevents moisture from making the crust soggy.
For a healthier option, try baking chicken tenders or air frying. A light spray of cooking spray can give a crunchy texture without extra oil or calories.
“The secret to perfectly crispy chicken tenders is all in the preparation and technique. Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dish that’s truly finger-licking good.”
Spice Level Customization Options
The spicy chicken recipe lets you adjust the heat to your liking. You can choose from a mild flavor to a bold, fiery kick. This chicken tenders recipe has many options to match your taste.
Mild to Wild Heat Adjustments
To control the spice, just change the cayenne pepper amount in the seasoning mix. For less heat, use less cayenne or skip it. Use smoked paprika for a smoky taste without the heat.
If you want more heat, add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also try different hot sauces like Sriracha or Tabasco for more heat.
Seasoning Blend Variations
- For a Mexican twist, add cumin and chipotle powder to the mix.
- An Asian flavor can come from five-spice powder and a bit of ginger.
- For a sweeter touch, add a bit of brown sugar to the seasoning.
This chicken recipes is all about trying new things. Experiment with spices to find your favorite flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces
Make your 15-Minute Spicy Chicken Tenders even better with tasty serving options and sauces. These chicken tenders are great as an appetizer, main course, or a quick weeknight meal.
Try them with creamy ranch, tangy honey mustard, or spicy mayo dips. For a bigger meal, add crispy fries, fluffy mashed potatoes, or fresh steamed veggies. They’re also great for game days or movie nights.
For a cool contrast, add a crunchy coleslaw or a fresh green salad. Refresh with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water to cool down the spice.
| Dipping Sauce | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Ranch | Buttermilk, mayonnaise, herbs, spices |
| Honey Mustard | Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, vinegar |
| Spicy Mayo | Mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, lime juice |
If you like milder flavors, try using soy sauce or a mix of soy and fish sauce instead of fish sauce. You can make the perfect sauce for your chicken tenders your way.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage and reheating are key for keeping your chicken recipes tasty. To enjoy your quick dinner recipes fully, follow these tips:
Proper Storage Methods
After cooking, store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. When freezing, lay them flat on a baking sheet before putting them in a container or bag.
Best Reheating Practices
To keep your chicken tenders crispy, reheat them in the oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Or, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket a few times.
Don’t reheat in the microwave, as it can make them soggy. For meal prep, bread the tenders and freeze them. Then, bake or air fry them when you’re ready to eat.
“The secret to perfectly crispy chicken tenders is all in the storage and reheating techniques. Follow these guidelines to enjoy your quick dinner recipes to the fullest.”
Healthier Cooking Alternatives
Looking for a healthier version of chicken tenders? There are many ways to make them crispy and tasty without extra oil or calories. Try air-frying, oven-baking, or grilling for a nutritious twist on healthy chicken tenders.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
The air fryer is a great tool for healthy chicken tenders. Just put your marinated chicken tenders in the basket and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway for a crispy outside and juicy inside.
Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders
For easy oven-baked chicken tenders, place coated tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. This method gives a crispy texture without deep frying.
Healthier Coating Options
- Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for a nutritious breading.
- Lightly spray tenders with cooking spray before cooking for less oil.
Grilled Chicken Tenders
Grilling is a low-fat, flavorful way to cook chicken tenders. The grill adds a smoky taste and a crispy outside. Cook until the chicken is done but still juicy.
Try these air fryer recipes and oven-baked chicken options for healthier chicken tenders. Experiment with seasonings and sauces to find your favorite flavor and nutrition mix.
Conclusion
This 15-minute spicy chicken tenders recipe is perfect for any meal. It’s great for family dinners, game days, or meal prep. The tenders are always crispy and juicy, thanks to the flavorful seasonings and quick marinade.
Adjust the spice to your liking and choose how to cook them. You can fry, bake, or reheat for that crispy texture. This makes the recipe a hit with everyone, no matter their taste or dietary needs.
It’s also easy to make ahead and store. This makes it ideal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or add them to other recipes. They’re sure to please your taste buds and make mealtime easy.