Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to upgrade your weeknight dinners, look no further than Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders! Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a crunchy pretzel crust that adds an irresistible salty flavor to the dish. These tenders strike the perfect balance between satisfying crunch and tender meat, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Not only are they simple to make, but they also bring a unique twist to traditional chicken tenders. In this post, I’ll guide you through creating this tasty dish step-by-step, sharing tips and tricks along the way, so you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Why You’ll Love This Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

If you’re on the fence about making this dish, allow me to convince you! Here are some reasons why these Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders will become a staple in your kitchen:

Quick and Easy: With a short prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty yet simple.
Kid-Friendly: The crispy pretzel coating is like a magnet for kids who love crispy textures. They’re more likely to eat their veggies when served with these tenders!
Versatile: Whether you choose to bake or fry, you can adapt this recipe to fit your health preferences or cooking method of choice.
Perfect for Gatherings: These tenders make for a great appetizer at parties or game day gatherings—you can even serve them with an array of dipping sauces!
Budget-Friendly: Made from just a few simple ingredients, you can feed a family without breaking the bank.

The Necessary Ingredients

To make these delicious Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb chicken tenders
2 cups pretzels, crushed
1 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying (if frying)

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Chicken Tenders: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute if you can’t find tenders. Just slice it into strips to mimic the tender size.
Pretzels: If you don’t have pretzels, you can use crushed tortilla chips or even panko breadcrumbs for a different texture—it won’t be the same but still delicious!
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but if you need a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.

How to Prepare the Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders Step by Step

Follow these easy steps to create your Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders. Each step is broken down to ensure every detail is covered!

Preheat your oven or heat oil for frying.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re planning to bake the tenders. If you prefer frying, heat about an inch of oil in a pan over medium heat.
Pro Tip: If baking, consider lining your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Set up a breading station.
- Create a three-step breading station: in one bowl, place the flour; in the second bowl, add the beaten eggs; and in the third bowl, combine crushed pretzels, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pro Tip: An assembly line method speeds up the breading process and keeps your hands cleaner!
Bread the chicken tenders.
- Take a chicken tender and first dip it in the flour, making sure it’s coated evenly. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the pretzel mixture until fully coated.
Pro Tip: Press the pretzel coating firmly onto the chicken to help it stick better during cooking.
Cook the tenders.
- For frying, carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. If baking, arrange them on a baking sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve immediately.
- Once cooked, remove the tenders from the heat and serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces.
Pro Tip: If serving at a gathering, keep the tenders warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest!

Serving Suggestions

Make your Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders even more delightful with these serving ideas:

Perfect Pairings

Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce to complement the salty crunch of the pretzels.
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad, sweet potato fries, or a classic coleslaw for a complete meal.
Drinks: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer for adults to round out your meal.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: Easy to whip up on a busy night, these tenders can be on the table in under 30 minutes!
Game Day Snacks: Perfect finger food for watching sports with friends.
Kids’ Parties: These tenders are not only appealing to children, but they’re fun to eat!

Serving Tips

Consider presenting the chicken tenders in a fun way, like on a wooden board with various sauces in small bowls for a DIY experience.
Don’t forget napkins; things can get a little messy with these tasty tenders!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders fresh, follow these storage techniques:

Refrigerated

Duration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Type of Container: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to maintain crispness.

Freezed

If Possible: Yes, these tenders freeze well! Pack them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag or shallow container.
Defrosting: Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Best Method: For best results, place the tenders in a warm oven (about 350°F) for 10-15 minutes, making them crispy again. Microwaving can make them soggy, so it’s not preferred.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, keep these golden rules in mind:

Don’t Rush the Breading: Make sure each piece is fully coated, or the crust may fall off while cooking.
Maintain Oil Temperature: If frying, ensure your oil is hot enough; otherwise, the chicken can absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches. Crowding lowers the oil temperature, hindering that lovely crispiness.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your spices like garlic powder are fresh for maximum flavor.
Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain juiciness.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these creative variations of the Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders:

For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the pretzel coating for an extra kick.
For a sweet twist: Substitute half of the pretzels with crushed honey-roasted nuts for a sweet and salty flavor.
For a vegan version: Replace the chicken tenders with firm tofu strips and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
A: Yes, although it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Follow the same breading and cooking process.

Q: My tenders didn’t turn out crispy. What did I do wrong?
A: Ensure that the oil was hot enough for frying or consider baking them without crowding the baking sheet if you’re using the oven.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Q: Can I make these chicken tenders in advance?
A: Yes! You can bread and refrigerate them ahead of time, cooking them just before serving.

Q: What can I serve with chicken tenders besides dipping sauces?
A: Consider serving them with a side of roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish to make for a balanced meal.

Q: Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Baking gives them a healthier twist, and they’re still deliciously crunchy.

Q: Should I wash the chicken before cooking?
A: While it’s a common practice, it’s not necessary. Cooking will kill any bacteria on the chicken; just be sure to handle raw chicken carefully!

Now that you have the complete rundown on Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy the crispy goodness, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!