Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the crispy outside and juicy inside of Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders. It was one of those cozy evenings when I decided to whip up a batch of these delectable tenders, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen took me right back to my childhood. Growing up, chicken tenders were a staple at family gatherings and weeknight dinners, but they never tasted quite as good as they do when they’re soaked in that tangy pickle juice. Trust me, this isn’t just any ordinary chicken tender recipe; it’s a game-changer!

As I prepared them, I couldn’t help but remember the excitement on everyone’s faces as they dug into a crispy golden piece. You know how it feels to take that first bite, right? The flavor explosion from that brine mingling with the crunch of the breadcrumbs is a culinary hug in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy meal at home, these tenders are perfect for any occasion.

What makes them even better is that they are baked, not fried, which means you can enjoy the comforting taste without the guilt of excess oil. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!

Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients

The ingredients for Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders come together beautifully to create a flavor-packed dish. Each one plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of taste and texture. Here’s a quick look at the key players:

• 12 (1 & 1/4 lbs) chicken tenders or skinless breasts – The star ingredient that provides the protein base for this dish.
• 1 and 1/4 cups dill pickle juice – This is what brings the tangy flavor and moisture to the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
• 1 large egg – This helps the breadcrumb coating adhere to the chicken.
• 1 large egg white – Added for extra binding in the coating process.
• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs – This forms the crispy outer layer that everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup seasoned panko – Adds extra crunch to the coating.
• Cooking spray – Used for coating the baking sheet to prevent sticking.

How to Assemble Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders

Making Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders is an enjoyable experience that results in a mouthwatering dish. Let’s break down the steps so you can create these delicious tenders yourself.

1. Begin by placing the chicken tenders in a shallow bowl. Pour enough dill pickle juice over the chicken to cover it completely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that delightful tang.
2. After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge and drain the pickle juice. Use paper towels to dry the chicken completely. This will help the coating stick better and ensure a crispy finish.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F. It’s important to have the oven nice and hot, as this will help achieve that golden color on the outside.
4. Spray a large baking sheet generously with cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the beaten egg, egg white, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well blended. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
6. In another shallow bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs and seasoned panko. The combination of these two types of breading gives a fantastic texture.
7. Take each piece of chicken, dip it first into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the mixture onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.
8. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced out enough so they can cook evenly. Spray the tops of the tenders with a bit more cooking spray for extra crispiness.
9. Bake the chicken in the lower third of the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bottom turns golden brown. Keep an eye on them!
10. After 8 to 10 minutes, carefully flip each tender and bake for an additional 6 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
11. If you love using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F. Give each tender a light spray with cooking spray on both sides. Cook the tenders in batches, ensuring they are in a single layer. Fry for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they reach that perfect golden color.

Make It Your Own

There are many ways to customize Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders to suit your taste. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Flavor Variations: Consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer a quicker method, try cooking them in an air fryer for a crispier finish!
• Serving Size: Double the recipe if you’re planning for a larger family gathering, as these tenders disappear quickly!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked tenders for up to two months. Just reheat in the oven to maintain the crunch.
• Pairing: These tenders go wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad.

What Complements This Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders

When serving Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with these tenders, adding a refreshing contrast.
• French Fries: Classic side that everyone loves. Bake or fry for that perfect golden sidekick.
• Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad can round out your meal beautifully, complementing the pickle flavor.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue to please everyone’s palate.
• Salads: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette can lighten up the meal and add freshness.
• Seasonal Fruits: Pair with slices of watermelon or a fruit salad for a sweet touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy coating that everyone will love. With their ease of preparation and versatility, they’re perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings. I encourage you to try making them tonight; I promise they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your home!

Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders

Craving something crispy and juicy? Try these Pickle Brined Baked Chicken Tenders that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the tangy flavor of pickle juice that keeps the chicken tender while offering a crunchy coating. Serve them for dinner, lunch, or as a snack!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.25 lbs chicken tenders or skinless breasts Cut into strips
• 1.25 cups dill pickle juice Enough to cover the chicken
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt To taste
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper To taste
• 1 large egg Beaten
• 1 large egg white
• 0.5 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup seasoned panko
• cooking spray

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Place the chicken in a shallow bowl and cover with pickle juice. Marinate in the refrigerator for 8 hours.
2. After marinating, drain and dry the chicken completely on paper towels; discard the marinade.
3. Preheat the oven to 425F. Spray a large baking sheet generously with oil.
4. Combine the egg, egg white, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and panko.
5. Dip the chicken in the egg wash, then into the breadcrumb mixture and shake off excess.
6. Place the chicken onto the prepared baking sheet and spray the top generously. Bake in the lower third of the oven until the bottom is golden, about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn and bake for 6 minutes, until golden.
7. Preheat the air fryer to 400F. Spray the chicken on both sides with oil. Cook in batches in a single layer for 5 to 6 minutes on each side.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked tenders for up to two months. Just reheat in the oven to maintain the crunch.
• Variations: Consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer a quicker method, try cooking them in an air fryer for a crispier finish!
• Pairing: These tenders go wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad.

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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.