Are you ready for a delicious, easy recipe that will impress your family? These Crispy Sesame Chicken Tenders are perfect for busy weeknights or a fun get-together. Made with simple ingredients like chicken, breadcrumbs, and sesame seeds, this dish packs a flavorful punch. Follow my step-by-step guide to get that perfect crunch every time. Let’s dive into the tasty details and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crunchy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs combined with sesame seeds create an irresistibly crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.
- Flavor Packed: This recipe is infused with garlic and onion powder, along with a sweet and savory sauce, making each bite burst with flavor.
- Healthy Baking: Baking instead of frying keeps the dish lighter and healthier, perfect for family meals without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Meal: These chicken tenders can be served as a main dish, appetizer, or even in salads, making them an adaptable choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
List of Essential Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making crispy sesame chicken tenders. I always use fresh chicken tenders for the best taste. Panko breadcrumbs give a great crunch, while all-purpose flour helps the coating stick. Eggs act as a binder, and sesame seeds add a nutty flavor.
For spices, garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Salt and black pepper bring out the flavors, while paprika adds a mild kick. For the sauce, I love using honey for sweetness, soy sauce for umami, and rice vinegar to balance the taste. Fresh cilantro can brighten the dish if you want to add it.
With these ingredients, you can create a meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help the chicken get crispy.
2. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the chicken from sticking.
Breading the Chicken
1. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will be your dry mix.
2. In another bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until smooth. This will help the breadcrumbs stick.
3. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds. This gives the chicken a nice crunch.
4. Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture. Shake off any extra flour.
5. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg, covering it well.
6. Finally, transfer the egg-coated chicken to the breadcrumb mixture. Press down lightly so the crumbs stick well.
Baking the Chicken
1. Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced apart. This allows hot air to circulate.
2. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be fully cooked.
3. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking. This helps them brown evenly on both sides.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
- Using panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a great crunch. They are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs. This makes your chicken tenders extra crunchy when baked.
- The right egg coating technique: Make sure to dip the chicken tenders fully in the egg. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better. A thick layer of egg gives a nice coating for the panko to cling to.
Enhancing Flavor
- Marinating tips before cooking: Marinating chicken tenders can boost their flavor. Mix soy sauce, honey, and a dash of garlic powder. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes. This step adds depth to the taste.
- Alternative spices to consider: Besides garlic and onion powder, try cayenne for heat or dried herbs for freshness. Adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika can change the flavor profile.
Presentation Tips
- Garnishing ideas: Fresh cilantro adds color and a burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch.
- Serving suggestions with dipping sauces: Pair the tenders with sweet and sour sauce or a spicy mayo. These dips enhance the meal and add fun flavors to each bite.
Pro Tips
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy texture, be sure to use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each chicken tender enough space on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Flipping is Key: Flip the chicken tenders halfway through the baking process to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by adding more honey or soy sauce according to your taste.
Variations
Gluten-Free Options
If you want crispy sesame chicken tenders but need a gluten-free option, you have choices. You can swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko. This keeps the crunch you love. For the soy sauce, use tamari, which is gluten-free.
Different Protein Choices
If you want to try something new, use different proteins. Tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian option. You can press and cube it before following the same breading steps. Shrimp is another tasty option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since shrimp cooks faster than chicken.
Flavor Variations
You can play with flavors by adding different sauces or spices. Try adding a splash of chili sauce for heat. You could mix in some ginger for a fresh taste. If you want a sweeter flavor, add more honey to the sauce. Experiment with what you like best!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your crispy sesame chicken tenders fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure the tenders are completely cool before sealing. This helps avoid moisture. Store them in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat and keep that crunchy texture, use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. Check to make sure they get hot throughout. Avoid using a microwave, as it will make them soggy. If you need a quick method, you can use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes.
Freezing Suggestions
To freeze the chicken tenders, first let them cool completely. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for 1-2 hours until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
FAQs
How to make crispy chicken tenders without frying?
To make crispy chicken tenders without frying, use your oven. Start by preheating it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Dredge the chicken in a flour mixture to coat it.
- Dip it in beaten eggs.
- Roll it in the panko and sesame seeds for that crispy finish.
Bake them for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway for even cooking. You will get a delightful crunch without the oil!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips about the same size as tenders. This ensures even cooking.
- Chicken breasts may take a bit longer to cook.
- Check if they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust your baking time to about 25-30 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I serve with crispy sesame chicken tenders?
You can serve crispy sesame chicken tenders with many side dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a fresh crunch.
- Fried rice or jasmine rice for a filling option.
- A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette.
- Sweet and sour sauce or peanut sauce for dipping.
These sides balance the meal and add more flavor!
In this post, we covered how to make tasty crispy sesame chicken tenders. We talked about the key ingredients, like chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices, along with step-by-step baking instructions. I shared tips for achieving a perfect crunch and suggested tasty variations. Remember, storing leftovers properly ensures they stay delicious. With these ideas and techniques, you can enjoy a fun and flavorful meal anytime. Try these chicken tenders, and impress your family or friends. Enjoy your cooking journey!
