Description
If you love crispy chicken with flavor that hits every note — sweet, savory, buttery, and just the right touch of spice — then Crack Tenders are your next must-try. Perfect for weeknight dinners, easy party appetizers, or a quick comfort-food fix, these golden bites bring together panko crunch, parmesan depth, and a buttery brown sugar finish. Whether you’re hunting for easy dinner ideas, kid-approved food ideas, or just a satisfying protein-packed snack, this quick recipe delivers every single time. It’s a reliable go-to for those looking for easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs (beaten)
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2–3 tbsp butter (melted for glaze)
2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Oil for frying (as needed)
Instructions
1. Slice chicken breasts into uniform strips if using, and pat dry.
2. Set up breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture.
3. Mix panko, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
4. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, then egg, then coat in seasoned breadcrumb mix.
5. Press coating firmly onto the chicken for maximum crunch.
6. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Cook tenders in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and internal temp is 165°F.
8. Drizzle melted butter over hot tenders or toss them in the butter.
9. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot with dipping sauces.
Notes
Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
Don’t skip the brown sugar — it gives the tenders their signature flavor.
Always let the tenders rest a few minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken tenders, easy dinner, comfort food, quick recipe, panko chicken, kid-friendly meal