Crispy Caesar Chicken Tenders
Indulge in these Crispy Caesar Chicken Tenders, a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features succulent chicken breast strips marinated in a zesty creamy Caesar dressing and then coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb mixture, bringing texture and flavor to every bite. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or a tantalizing addition to a salad, these chicken tenders are sure to please anyone at your table. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, they make a fantastic weeknight dinner or party treat. Pair with fresh Romaine leaves and extra dressing for a complete meal!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
creamy Caesar salad dressing
3/4 cup (divided)
buttermilk
1/4 cup
sea salt
1/2 teaspoon
fresh ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon
chicken breasts, strips
1 1/2 lbs
Japanese-style bread crumbs (panko)
1 cup
all-purpose flour
1/2 cup
chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons
vegetable oil
1 cup (for frying)
romaine lettuce leaves
to serve (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of Caesar salad dressing, buttermilk, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2
Add the chicken breast strips to the bowl, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
3
In a separate shallow dish or pie plate, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, and chopped fresh parsley until evenly combined.
4
Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge each strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere to both sides. Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet.
5
Cover the chicken and place it in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes — this helps the coating stick better during frying.
6
In a large deep-sided skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until shimmering and hot.
7
Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8
Once cooked, transfer the chicken strips to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
9
Serve warm or chilled alongside the remaining 1/4 cup of Caesar dressing and fresh Romaine lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Caesar Chicken Tenders?
Crispy Caesar Chicken Tenders are succulent chicken breast strips marinated in creamy Caesar dressing and buttermilk, then coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fried to perfection.
What kind of dressing should I use?
You should use a creamy Caesar salad dressing for both the marinade and for serving as a dipping sauce.
How long should the chicken marinate?
The chicken should marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, you can leave it in the refrigerator overnight.
Why is buttermilk used in the recipe?
Buttermilk is used in the marinade to help tenderize the chicken and add a subtle tangy flavor.
What type of breadcrumbs are used for the coating?
The recipe calls for Japanese-style bread crumbs, also known as panko, which provide a superior crunch.
Why do I need to chill the chicken after breading?
Chilling the breaded chicken for 30 minutes helps the coating adhere better to the meat so it doesn't fall off during frying.
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?
While this recipe is designed for frying, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until they are golden and cooked through.
What oil is best for frying these tenders?
Vegetable oil is recommended for frying because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
How long does it take to fry the chicken?
The chicken tenders should be cooked for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
What is the purpose of the flour in the breading mixture?
The all-purpose flour helps the panko breadcrumbs stick to the marinated chicken more effectively.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the outside is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast strips with sliced chicken thigh meat if you prefer a juicier texture.
What should I serve with Crispy Caesar Chicken Tenders?
They are excellent served with fresh Romaine lettuce leaves and extra Caesar dressing for dipping.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, chicken tenders are a favorite for children, and the Caesar flavor is mild and savory.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
How do I store leftover chicken tenders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat these?
To keep them crispy, reheat the tenders in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.
Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze them after breading but before frying, or after they have been fully cooked and cooled.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 lbs of chicken, which typically serves about 4 people depending on the size of the portions.
Do I have to use fresh parsley?
Fresh parsley adds a nice color and brightness, but you can use 2 teaspoons of dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry these at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why is a deep-sided skillet recommended?
A deep-sided skillet helps contain oil splatters and allows for enough oil to fry the chicken evenly.
Can I skip the chilling step?
It is not recommended to skip the chilling step, as it is crucial for ensuring the breading stays attached to the chicken.
Is this dish healthy?
While these are fried, you can make them healthier by using an air fryer and serving them with plenty of Romaine lettuce.
What if I don't have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/4 cup of regular milk.
Can I add spice to this recipe?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients, including the lettuce for garnish.
What should I do with excess oil after frying?
Place the cooked chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil before serving.
Can these be used as a salad topping?
Absolutely, these tenders are perfect when sliced and served over a classic Caesar salad.
How long does the whole process take?
Active prep and cooking take about 45 minutes, plus the time needed for marinating and chilling.