Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

There’s something truly delightful about serving up a plate of Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders. It might be the crispy texture that gives way to juicy, tender chicken, or perhaps it’s the satisfaction of preparing a dish that both kids and adults adore. I remember the first time I made these chicken tenders for my family. The way they all rushed to the table, eyes lighting up with anticipation, is a moment I cherish. As the aroma wafted through the kitchen, I felt a wave of pride. These tenders are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of comfort food done right!

What You Need for Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

When it comes to making Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders, the ingredients play a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component works harmoniously to create something truly special. From the chicken tenders to the panko breadcrumbs, these ingredients are the stars of the show.

• 1½ pounds of chicken tenders, about 8 to 10 large-ish tenders, or an equally sized chicken breast, cut diagonally into ¾-inch thick strips.
• ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, to help create a base for the coating.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavors of the dish.
• 1 egg, for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, ensuring that perfect crunch.
• ¼ cup of white sesame seeds, adding nuttiness and visual appeal.
• 2 tablespoons of black sesame seeds, for a beautiful contrast and flavor enhancement.
• Vegetable oil, for cooking the tenders to golden perfection.
• ½ cup of mayonnaise, for a creamy dipping sauce.
• 1 garlic clove, very finely minced or grated, giving the dip a kick.
• 3 tablespoons of lime juice, from 1 to 2 limes, to add brightness to the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons of sriracha, more or less to taste, if you like a bit of heat.
• 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, for a touch of umami.
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Water, as needed to adjust the consistency of the dipping sauce.

Putting Together Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

Making Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these steps for crispy, flavorful tenders that are sure to please!

1. Start by preparing your three bowls for the breading process. In a bowl or shallow dish large enough to fit a tender, combine flour with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This seasoned flour will be the first layer of flavor on your tenders, helping them to stay juicy while also adding taste.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg with a tablespoon of water. This mixture will serve as the adhesive that holds the breadcrumbs in place. The water helps to thin it slightly, making it easier to coat your chicken.
3. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the white sesame seeds and black sesame seeds until they are evenly distributed. This combination not only adds crunch but also a beautiful visual element to your tenders.
4. Now it’s time to bread the chicken. Take a piece of the chicken tender, dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Make sure every inch is covered, as this will help the next layer stick.
5. Next, dip the floured tender into the egg, flipping it to coat both sides. The egg should adhere nicely, creating a sticky surface for the breadcrumbs to cling to.
6. Now, transfer the tender into the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently into the crumbs. Toss some crumbs on top, then flip it over and press down to ensure the entire strip is coated evenly. Repeat with the remaining tenders, placing them on a plate or cutting board.
7. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fill the pan with approximately ¼ inch of vegetable oil, letting it heat until it shimmers. This is the perfect temperature for frying, ensuring the tenders become crispy without absorbing too much oil.
8. Working in batches, gently lay the coated tenders into the hot oil, ensuring they don’t touch. You may need to cook them in two batches. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
9. Carefully flip the tenders and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden on both sides. For safety, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit with an instant-read thermometer.
10. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire cooling rack set inside a cookie sheet. To keep them warm while you cook the rest, place the cookie sheet in a 175-degree Fahrenheit oven. If needed, add more oil to the pan and repeat the frying process with the remaining tenders.
11. While the tenders are frying, let’s make the dipping sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. For a thinner consistency, add a teaspoon or two of water until you reach your desired thickness.
12. Once all the chicken is nicely crisped up, serve the tenders warm alongside your delicious dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders!

Recipe Tips about Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

When it comes to making the best Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders, there are a few tips to keep in mind. These tips will help you achieve crispy, flavorful results every time!

• Storage: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes.
• Freezing: You can freeze un-fried breaded tenders for up to three months. Just make sure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw; just fry them straight from the freezer.
• Pairing: Serve these tenders with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair nicely with rice or quinoa.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the dipping sauce. For milder flavors, reduce or omit the sriracha.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and lime juice for the dipping sauce for the best flavor. Freshness makes a noticeable difference!
• Experimentation: Feel free to experiment with different dipping sauces. Honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy yogurt sauce can elevate your chicken tenders!

What to Serve Alongside Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

Serving Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders can be as creative as you like! Here are some fantastic ideas to complement these crispy delights:

• Fresh Salads: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Rice Dishes: Consider serving with jasmine rice or fried rice for a fulfilling meal. The flavors blend beautifully!
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies, like broccoli or green beans, add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Occasions: These tenders are perfect for game day gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or even as a tasty appetizer for parties.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven for that original crispy texture!
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a refreshing coleslaw or fruit salad. In winter, consider a warm potato salad or roasted root vegetables.

FAQ

Conclusion

The delightful crunch and juicy tenderness of Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders make them a standout in any meal. They are not just chicken tenders; they’re an experience that brings joy to the table. I encourage you to try making them yourself, and I assure you, your family will be asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite!

Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

The ultimate comfort food, Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and utterly addictive. Perfect for any occasion, these easy weeknight dinner favorites will have your family coming back for more. Make them tonight and experience the delicious crunch!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 8 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1½ pounds chicken tenders
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• salt
• 1 egg
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup white sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
• vegetable oil
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 garlic clove
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons sriracha
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• water

Equipment

• Whisk
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. In a bowl or shallow dish large enough to fit a tender, season flour with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk egg with a tablespoon of water.
3. In a third bowl, combine panko with white and black sesame seeds until evenly distributed.
4. Dredge tenders in the flour to coat, shaking off any excess flour. Dip into the egg, flipping to coat both sides, and then transfer into dish with breadcrumbs. Toss some crumbs over top, then flip and press until entire strip is evenly coated. Transfer to a plate or cutting board and repeat with remaining tenders.
5. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fill pan with approximately oil to a 1/4-inch depth, and let heat until it starts to shimmer.
6. Working in batches, gently lay coated tenders into hot oil, arranging them so they do not touch in the pan. Let cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook another 3 to 4 minutes more.
7. Transfer chicken to a wire cooling rack set inside a cookie sheet. To keep them warm while you cook the rest of the tenders, place cookie sheet in a 175 degree oven. Add additional oil to the pan if necessary, then cook remaining tenders in the same manner.
8. Meanwhile, to make dipping sauce, whisk together mayo, garlic, lime juice, sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. If using as a dip, stop here. If using as a dressing for a salad, add a teaspoon or two of water as needed to thin it out.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze un-fried breaded tenders for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Serve these tenders with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Tip 4: You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the dipping sauce.
• Tip 5: Use fresh garlic and lime juice for the best flavor.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.