Tasty Sesame Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe Guide

Ready to elevate your dinner game? This Tasty Sesame Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe Guide brings you a crunchy twist on a classic favorite. I’ll walk you through every step, from the simple ingredients to tips for the perfect crispy crust. Whether you want to boost flavor or need storage tips, you’ll find it all here. Let’s dive in and make a dish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Sesame Crusted Chicken Tenders

To make sesame crusted chicken tenders, you will need:

- 1 lb chicken tenders

- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

- 1/2 cup sesame seeds (mix white and black for color)

- 1/2 cup flour

- 2 eggs

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients create a tasty base for your dish. The chicken gives you protein, while the sesame seeds add a nice crunch and flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

You can enhance the flavor with:

- 1/4 cup honey

- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

- 1 tablespoon sesame oil

- Cooking spray or oil for baking

These extras create a sweet and savory dip. It pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.

Nutritional Info per Serving

Each serving has about:

- Calories: 320

- Protein: 25g

- Carbohydrates: 30g

- Fat: 10g

This meal is healthy and filling. It fits well into a balanced diet. You can enjoy these chicken tenders without guilt!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken Tenders

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for crispy chicken. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil. This helps the chicken not stick. Now, grab your chicken tenders. Make sure they are thawed and dry. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture. This ensures a better crust.

Breading Process Explained

Set up three bowls for breading. In the first bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This spice mix adds great flavor. In the second bowl, crack two eggs and whisk them until smooth. The eggs help the crumbs stick. For the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds. I love using both white and black sesame seeds for color.

Now, take each chicken tender and dip it into the flour mix first. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the eggs, letting the excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the sesame-panko mix. Press down lightly to ensure an even coating. This step is crucial for a nice crunch.

Cooking Instructions for Perfect Texture

Arrange the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. For extra crispiness, spritz them lightly with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through cooking. This helps them brown evenly. The chicken is done when it is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

While the chicken bakes, make your dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Once your chicken tenders are done, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with the honey-soy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your tasty creation!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Crispy Crust

To get that crispy crust, start with dry chicken tenders. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture. Use a mix of panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds for crunch. Press the coating onto the chicken. This helps it stick better. A light spray of cooking oil on top aids in browning. Bake at 400°F for a golden finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not skip the flour step. It helps the egg stick to the chicken. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Make sure to flip the tenders halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking and browning. Remember, chicken should reach 165°F to be safe.

Suggestions for Making Ahead

You can prep the chicken tenders in advance. After breading, place them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This lets the flavors meld. You can also freeze them. Place the breaded tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Variations

Flavor Variations to Try

You can change the flavor of your sesame crusted chicken tenders easily. For a zesty kick, add lemon zest to the flour mix. If you love heat, mix some cayenne pepper into the breadcrumbs. Want a more Asian flavor? Use five-spice powder or add a splash of sesame dressing to the breadcrumbs. You can also try adding grated Parmesan to the mixture for a cheesy touch. Each variation adds a new twist to this simple dish!

Gluten-Free Alternatives for Breading

If you need a gluten-free option, swap the flour and panko for gluten-free versions. Use almond flour or rice flour instead of regular flour. For the breadcrumbs, you can use crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure to check that all your ingredients, like soy sauce, are gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy tasty chicken tenders without gluten.

Adjusting Spice Levels

To change the spice level, you can adjust the seasonings in your flour mix. For milder tenders, skip the paprika and garlic powder or reduce the amounts. If you like spice, add more paprika or cayenne pepper. You can also serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce, like sriracha mixed with honey. This way, everyone can enjoy the chicken at their own spice level.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders

To keep leftover chicken tenders fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. Store the container in the fridge. They should last for up to three days.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Crispiness

When it's time to reheat, use the oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes. This keeps the coating crispy. If you want, you can spray them lightly with oil before baking.

Freezing Options and Best Practices

You can freeze chicken tenders, too! After they cool, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I fry these chicken tenders instead of baking?

Yes, you can fry these chicken tenders! Frying gives them a nice crunch. To fry, heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken tenders. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside. This method can give you a crispy texture that many love.

How can I make these tenders spicier?

To spice up your chicken tenders, add some heat to the breading. Mix in cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour mixture. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust to your taste. You can also add hot sauce to the honey-soy dipping sauce. The blend of sweet and spicy will excite your taste buds!

What are some good side dishes to serve with sesame crusted chicken tenders?

There are many tasty sides that go well with these chicken tenders. Here are some ideas:

- Steamed broccoli

- Fried rice

- Sweet potato fries

- A fresh garden salad

- Creamy coleslaw

These options will make your meal colorful and balanced. Enjoy pairing your chicken tenders with any of these sides!

We explored how to make sesame crusted chicken tenders, starting with key ingredients. You learned the prep steps and the breading process for great texture. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and enhance flavor. We also discussed how to store leftovers and answered your questions. Enjoy experimenting with the variations, and remember: the right adjustments can make a big difference. Now, it’s your turn to make these tenders shine at your table!