The Best Chicken Tenders and Fries

Name: Chicken Tenders and Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips); 1 cup buttermilk (for tenderizing and flavor); 1 large egg (helps the coating adhere); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for structure and crispiness); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (adds extra crunch); ½ cup cornstarch (for light, crispy texture); 1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth); 1 teaspoon paprika (for a warm, slightly smoky taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper (a touch of spice); ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Vegetable oil for frying (or preferred oil for baking/air frying); 4 large russet potatoes (ideal for crispy fries); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking or air frying); ½ teaspoon salt (to season); ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness); ½ teaspoon black pepper; Honey mustard; Ranch dressing; Barbecue sauce; Spicy sriracha mayo

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There’s nothing quite like the irresistible crunch of homemade chicken tenders and fries—golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly meal, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen.

Made with juicy chicken breast, a flavorful buttermilk marinade, and a perfectly seasoned crispy coating, these tenders fry up to golden perfection. Pair them with homemade fries, and you have the ultimate comfort food experience. Best of all, you can make them deep-fried, oven-baked, or in an air fryer—customized to your preference.

Get ready to enjoy the best homemade crispy chicken tenders and fries with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.

Key Benefits of Homemade Chicken Tenders and Fries

Making chicken tenders and fries from scratch isn’t just about the flavor—it’s about control, quality, and customization. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

✔️ Crispy Perfection – Achieve that golden, crunchy coating every time with the right breading technique.
✔️ Juicy & Flavorful – A buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist, tender, and packed with taste.
✔️ Customizable Cooking Methods – Whether you prefer deep-frying, baking, or air frying, this recipe adapts to your needs.
✔️ Better Than Takeout – No preservatives, artificial ingredients, or unnecessary additives—just fresh, real food.
✔️ Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A dish loved by all ages, perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings.
✔️ Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality tenders and fries in no time.

By following this recipe, you’ll create the ultimate homemade crispy chicken tenders and fries, packed with flavor and texture that rivals your favorite restaurant. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Tenders and Fries

Gathering the right ingredients ensures perfectly crispy chicken tenders and golden fries every time. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh ingredients laid out for making chicken tenders and fries.

For the Chicken Tenders:

1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
1 cup buttermilk (for tenderizing and flavor)
1 large egg (helps the coating adhere)
1 cup all-purpose flour (for structure and crispiness)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (adds extra crunch)
½ cup cornstarch (for light, crispy texture)
1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth)
1 teaspoon paprika (for a warm, slightly smoky taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper (a touch of spice)
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Vegetable oil for frying (or preferred oil for baking/air frying)

For the Fries:

4 large russet potatoes (ideal for crispy fries)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking or air frying)
½ teaspoon salt (to season)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness)
½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Dipping Sauces:

Honey mustard
Ranch dressing
Barbecue sauce
Spicy sriracha mayo

Having these ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, ensuring you get crispy, golden chicken tenders and perfectly seasoned fries every time.

Instructions for Perfect Chicken Tenders and Fries

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process to achieve crispy, golden chicken tenders and perfectly seasoned fries every time.

1. Prepare the Potatoes for the Fries

Wash and peel the russet potatoes (or leave the skin on for a rustic touch).
Cut into even-sized strips, about ¼-inch thick, for uniform cooking.
Soak the potato slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch—this helps them get crispier.
Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel.

2. Preheat the Oil (for Frying) or Oven (for Baking)

If Frying: Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large pot and heat to 350°F (175°C) – this is crucial for achieving that golden-brown perfection!
If Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
For air frying: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

3. Coat the Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders being coated with breadcrumbs.

In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk and egg until well combined.
In another bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
For a super crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then back into the flour. (a double-dredge method).

4. Cook the Fries

For frying: Add the potato strips in small batches and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
For baking: Toss the fries with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For air frying: Toss with oil and seasonings, then air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes for even crisping.

Fries baking on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the oven.

5. Fry or Bake the Chicken Tenders

For frying: Gently place coated tenders into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
For baking: Arrange on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
For air frying: Spray the basket lightly with oil, add the tenders in a single layer, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Pro Tips and Variations

Want to take your chicken tenders and fries to the next level? These expert tips and creative variations will help you achieve extra crispy texture, bold flavors, and a flawless cooking process every time.

Pro Tips for Crispy Chicken Tenders

Double-dredge for extra crunch – For an ultra-crispy coating, dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice before frying or baking.
Use cornstarch for a lighter, crispier texture – A blend of flour and cornstarch in the coating helps create that perfect crunch.
Rest the breaded tenders before cooking – Letting them sit for 5-10 minutes before frying or baking helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off.
Fry in small batches – Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy rather than crispy tenders.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fries

Soak the potatoes – A 30-minute soak in cold water removes excess starch, preventing sogginess and making the fries extra crispy.
Twice-fry for restaurant-style crispiness – Fry the potatoes once at 325°F (163°C) until slightly golden, drain, then fry again at 375°F (190°C) for the perfect crunch.
Use a wire rack instead of paper towels – This prevents the fries from getting soggy after frying by allowing air circulation.

Flavor Variations

Looking to switch things up? Try these fun twists on classic chicken tenders and fries:

Spicy Kick – Add hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture and mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour for a fiery twist.

Garlic Parmesan Tenders – After frying or baking, toss the chicken in melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan for a rich, garlicky flavor.

Cajun-Style Fries – Season the fries with a blend of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a touch of garlic powder for bold, zesty flavor.

Honey Mustard Glaze – Drizzle the tenders with warm honey mustard sauce or serve it as a dipping sauce for a sweet-savory balance.

Gluten-Free Alternative – Swap regular flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for a crunchy alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tenders and Fries

Now that your crispy chicken tenders and golden fries are ready, let’s talk about the best ways to serve them! Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner, a game-day snack, or a party platter, these serving ideas will make your meal even more delicious and satisfying.

Classic Pairings

Dipping Sauces – The right dip enhances the flavor of your chicken tenders! Try:
- Honey mustard – A perfect balance of sweet and tangy
- Ranch dressing – Creamy, herby, and refreshing
- BBQ sauce – Smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy
- Buffalo sauce – Spicy and bold for heat lovers
- Garlic aioli – A rich, garlicky alternative
Coleslaw – A cool, crisp side that pairs well with crunchy chicken and fries.
Corn on the cob – Buttery, slightly sweet, and perfect for a comforting meal.
Pickles – Their tangy crunch balances the richness of fried food.

Healthier Serving Options

Side Salad – Pair your crispy tenders with a fresh garden salad drizzled in a light vinaigrette.
Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly healthier alternative with natural sweetness and crispiness.
Grilled Vegetables – Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the dish beautifully.
Whole Wheat Wrap – Turn your tenders into a wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light dressing for a balanced meal.

Creative Serving Ideas

Chicken Tender Sliders – Serve tenders on mini buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
Chicken & Waffles – A Southern-inspired treat—pair crispy tenders with fluffy waffles.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Bowl – Toss tenders in Buffalo sauce and serve over rice with ranch dressing and fresh greens.

No matter how you serve them, these chicken tenders and fries are sure to be a hit.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like biting into golden, crispy chicken tenders paired with perfectly seasoned fries. Whether you’re making them for a quick family meal, a game-day snack, or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home.

By following these simple yet effective cooking techniques, you’ll get juicy, flavorful chicken with a crunchy coating and crispy fries that are irresistible. Plus, with the dipping sauces, side options, and creative serving ideas we covered, you can customize this dish to suit any craving.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, fire up your fryer (or oven/air fryer), and enjoy the ultimate homemade comfort food. And don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—we’d love to hear how your tenders turned out!

Chicken Tenders and Fries

Emily

Crispy, golden Chicken Tenders and Fries made at home! Easy to prepare, perfectly seasoned, and deliciously crunchy, perfect for any meal or snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1 15

Course Main Course, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 520 kcal