Name: Matzah Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 sheets Whole Wheat Matzo Sheets (about 1 cup crushed); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 pound Chicken Breast Tenders (remove white stringy tendon); 3/4 cup Buttermilk (or regular milk); 1 serving Greek Yogurt (for dipping)

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The first time I made Matzah Chicken Tenders, it was purely out of curiosity. I had some extra matzo lying around from Passover and wondered how I could transform it into a delightful dish. What started as a simple experiment quickly turned into a family favorite! The crunch of the matzo breading combined with tender, juicy chicken created a symphony of textures and flavors that was nothing short of magical. My kids were skeptical at first, but the moment they took that first bite, their faces lit up. The crispy exterior and moist interior made it impossible to resist. Now, these tenders are a staple in our home, not just during the holidays but all year round. Whether served with a side of Greek yogurt dip or a fresh salad, they bring a sense of warmth and togetherness to our table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
31 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Food Processor, Mixing Bowl, Oven

Why This Matzah Chicken Tenders Works

Unique Flavor Profile

What sets Matzah Chicken Tenders apart is the use of whole wheat matzo. This ingredient not only gives the chicken a delightful crunch but also adds a unique nutty flavor that you won’t find in traditional breadcrumbs. The combination of the buttermilk and chicken results in a tender, juicy bite that’s simply irresistible.

Quick and Simple

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare and delivers on taste, this is it! The steps are straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without the fuss. You can have these tenders ready for the oven in no time, which means less stress and more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

Versatile Serving Options

Another reason I adore Matzah Chicken Tenders is their versatility. Serve them alongside a crisp salad for a light lunch, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun dinner. They also make for fantastic party appetizers, so you can impress your friends with something unique and flavorful!

Healthier Alternative

Using whole wheat matzo and lean chicken breast makes this dish a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. You can enjoy the crispy goodness without the guilt, as the ingredients come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Kid-Friendly

Kids love finger foods, and these tenders are no exception! The familiar flavor of chicken combined with the fun crunch of matzo makes them a hit with children. You can even involve your kids in the cooking process, letting them help with the breading for a fun family activity.

Freezer-Friendly

One of the best things about Matzah Chicken Tenders is that they can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use. This means you can have a quick, delicious meal on hand for those busy nights when cooking from scratch isn’t an option.

Ingredients Required for Matzah Chicken Tenders

The ingredients for Matzah Chicken Tenders reflect a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect tender. The key players include whole wheat matzo, which provides a delightful crunch, and buttermilk that ensures the chicken is moist and flavorful. Together, these ingredients create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also wholesome.

Whole Wheat Matzo Sheets (3 sheets, about 1 cup crushed) – These are the star ingredient, giving the tenders their unique crunch and flavor.
Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavors and balances the dish.
Chicken Breast Tenders (1 pound) – The main protein source, ensuring a juicy and tender bite.
Buttermilk (3/4 cup) – Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds moisture.
Greek Yogurt – Perfect for dipping, adding a creamy tang to complement the crispy tenders.

Cooking Method for Matzah Chicken Tenders

Making Matzah Chicken Tenders is both fun and rewarding. I love how simple it is to create something that tastes gourmet without needing advanced culinary skills. Let’s dive into the cooking process step by step!

First, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your chicken tenders will cook evenly and develop that gorgeous golden-brown color.
Next, take the whole wheat matzo and kosher salt, placing them in a zip-top bag. Crush them using a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. You’ll want that coarse texture to adhere perfectly to the chicken.
In a shallow bowl, pour the buttermilk. This is where the magic starts! Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s well coated. This step is crucial as it will help the matzo breading stick.
Now, take the coated chicken tenders and roll them in the crushed matzo. Ensure that they are completely covered for that perfect crunch.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and placing an oven-safe cooling rack on top. This allows heat to circulate around the tenders, making them crispy on all sides. Lay the breaded tenders on the rack, lightly spraying them with oil on each side.
Pop them in the oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes. Keep an eye out for that beautiful golden-brown color and ensure the chicken is cooked through. It should feel firm to the touch, and a thermometer inserted should read 165°F.
Now, if you’d like to freeze the tenders, here’s how: After the coating step, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for one hour. Transfer the frozen tenders into labeled zipper bags, where they can be stored for up to three months. When ready to cook, add an additional 2 minutes to the cooking time.

Things Worth Knowing

Check the matzo: Make sure the matzo is crushed finely enough to coat the chicken well.
Don’t skip the buttermilk: This is key for tenderness and flavor, making the chicken juicy and delicious.
Watch the cooking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your tenders to avoid overcooking.
Freezing tips: Ensure the tenders are fully cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.

Tips and Tricks about Matzah Chicken Tenders

Mastering Matzah Chicken Tenders is all about the details and patience. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: These tenders freeze well, making meal prep a breeze. Just follow the freezing instructions carefully.
Pairing: Serve with a side of homemade tzatziki sauce or a fresh green salad to brighten the meal.
Spice it up: Feel free to add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the matzo mixture for added flavor.
Cooking methods: You can also cook these in an air fryer for a quicker, healthier option while still achieving that crispiness.
Involve the kids: Let your children help with the coating process; it’s a great way to bond and make cooking fun!

Great Combinations for Matzah Chicken Tenders

Matzah Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some great combinations:

Fresh Salad: Pair them with a crisp green salad for a light lunch.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dips like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or tzatziki.
Festive Occasions: Perfect for gatherings or parties where finger foods are a hit.
Comforting Sides: Enjoy them alongside mashed potatoes or a warm grain salad for a heartier dinner.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge, and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Seasonal Pairings: These tenders are great year-round but shine in spring with fresh herbs and citrus flavors.

FAQ

Absolutely! While Matzah Chicken Tenders use matzo for a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly, but the dish will still be delicious. If you decide to go this route, you might want to season the breadcrumbs with a bit of salt and spices to enhance their flavor.

To make Matzah Chicken Tenders gluten-free, simply replace the whole wheat matzo with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, like the buttermilk and yogurt, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same crispy, delicious tenders without any gluten!

When it comes to dipping sauces, the options are endless! Some favorites include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and tzatziki for a refreshing touch. You can also try a spicy aioli or a homemade ranch dressing for a creamy complement. Feel free to get creative and mix different flavors to find your perfect match!

To store any leftover Matzah Chicken Tenders, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in the oven to retain their crispiness. Just preheat your oven to 350°F and warm them for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Matzah Chicken Tenders truly offer a unique twist on a classic dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Their crispy texture and juicy flavor make them a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their chicken tender game. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot and share it with your family. You might find that it becomes a beloved staple in your home, just like it did in mine.