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chicken tenders and fries

chicken tenders and fries

Chef Ellie
Enjoy a healthier twist on your favorite comfort food with these crispy chicken tenders and fries—easy to make, delicious, and packed with flavor!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips
  • ½ cup almond flour for a gluten-free option or panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for added flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds a hint of smoky depth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large egg whisked or ½ cup buttermilk (for extra tenderness)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for crispiness without deep frying

For the Fries:

  • 2 large russet potatoes or sweet potatoes cut into thin strips
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil for a higher smoke point
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Dipping Sauces:

  • Greek yogurt ranch – Mix Greek yogurt lemon juice, garlic powder, and herbs.
  • Honey mustard – Combine Dijon mustard honey, and a splash of vinegar.
  • Spicy sriracha mayo – Blend Greek yogurt or mayo with sriracha and lime juice.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

  • Cut and season the chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into strips, about 1-inch wide. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder.
  • Create the coating station: Set up three shallow bowls. In one, whisk an egg (or use a flax egg for a vegan option). In the second, mix almond flour (or your preferred flour) with panko breadcrumbs and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. In the third, place a bit of grated Parmesan cheese for a savory touch.
  • Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs gently to ensure a good layer sticks.

Step 2: Prepare the Fries

  • Cut the potatoes: Slice sweet potatoes or regular potatoes into thin, uniform fries (about 1/4-inch thick).
  • Season the fries: Toss the potato strips in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. For an extra crispy texture, you can add a bit of cornstarch to the mix!
  • Arrange on a baking sheet: Lay the fries flat in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry the Tenders and Fries

  • For oven baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken tenders and fries on separate sides of the baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
  • For air frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders and fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Once everything is crispy and golden, remove from the oven or air fryer. Serve your chicken tenders and fries with your favorite dipping sauces, like Greek yogurt ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Vitamin A: 6%
  • Vitamin C: 20%
  • Calcium: 8%
  • Iron: 15%