Name: Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 inches Vegetable oil ((for frying)); 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Dried parsley; 1 teaspoon Ground paprika; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; ½ teaspoon Kosher salt; ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper; 2 large Eggs; ¼ cup Milk; 2 cups Crushed pretzels; 1¼ pounds Chicken tenderloins; Dipping sauce ((mustard, ketchup, or your choice)); Chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders have become a family favorite in my home, especially on those busy weeknights when you crave something crispy and flavorful. I remember the first time I made them; my kids were skeptical at first, but the moment they took that first bite, their eyes lit up! The salty and crunchy pretzel coating envelops tender chicken, making every bite irresistible. I often pair them with a variety of dipping sauces, and it’s a joy to watch everyone gather around the table, excited for the feast ahead. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a game day snack, these tenders never fail to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Skillet, Food Processor

The Magic of This Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

It’s All About the Crunch

One of the standout features of the Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders is undoubtedly the crunch. The crushed pretzels create a unique texture that’s hard to resist. You’ll find that the combination of crispy exterior and juicy chicken inside is a match made in culinary heaven.

Versatile Dipping Options

These tenders can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, or your favorite homemade sauce. This versatility means you can switch things up every time you make them, ensuring that no two experiences are ever the same.

Family Fun in the Kitchen

Cooking together as a family is always a blast, and making Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders is no exception. Kids love getting their hands involved in the dredging process, and it’s a great way to bond while teaching them essential cooking skills.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, these tenders are perfect for any occasion. They can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or a party food that everyone will love.

Easy to Prepare

With a simple ingredient list and straightforward steps, these tenders are easy to whip up. Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can feel confident making this dish!

Healthier Than Fast Food

Making your own chicken tenders at home means you can control the ingredients and avoid the preservatives found in many store-bought options. You’ll feel much better serving these homemade tenders to your family.

Ingredient List for Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. The key players in this recipe are the crushed pretzels, which provide that irresistible crunch, and the chicken tenderloins, which are juicy and tender. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for achieving that golden, crispy texture. It’s the base for frying, allowing the tenders to cook evenly.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Offers a light coating that helps the other ingredients adhere to the chicken.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a hint of flavor and color to the breading.
1 teaspoon ground paprika: Gives a bit of warmth and color to the dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with its savory taste.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds depth to the seasoning.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a little kick to the seasoning mix.
2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent, helping the coating stick to the chicken.
¼ cup milk: Makes the egg mixture creamy and helps the flour coating adhere better.
2 cups crushed pretzels: The star of the show, providing that signature crunch and salty flavor.
1¼ pounds chicken tenderloins: Juicy pieces of chicken that are perfect for frying.
Mustard, ketchup, or dipping sauce: Great options for serving that add extra flavor.
Chopped fresh parsley: A delightful garnish that adds freshness to the dish.

Step by Step Guide for Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

Making Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders is a fun and engaging process. You’ll love the satisfaction of creating a crunchy, flavorful dish at home. Let’s get started with these detailed steps to ensure your tenders turn out perfectly!

Start by pouring about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet. Heat it over low to medium heat until it reaches 365°F. This is the ideal temperature for frying, ensuring the chicken cooks through while achieving that golden texture.
In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 teaspoon ground paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed. This blend of spices will be the first layer of flavor on your chicken!
In another shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and ¼ cup of milk. This mixture will serve as the binding agent, helping the flour and pretzels stick to the chicken.
Next, take 2 cups of crushed pretzels and place them in a third shallow bowl. This will be the final coating for your chicken, adding that all-important crunch.
Now, prepare the 1¼ pounds of chicken tenderloins. Take each piece of chicken and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour before moving to the next step. This initial coating is crucial for flavor and texture.
After the flour, dip the coated chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. This step is essential for the pretzel coating to adhere properly.
Finally, roll the chicken in the crushed pretzels, pressing down gently to ensure they stick well. The more pretzels that stick, the crunchier your tenders will be!
Once all the chicken is coated, carefully place 2-3 tenders at a time into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Using tongs, remove the fried tenders and place them on a cooling rack to keep them crispy. Avoid placing them directly on a plate, as this might make them soggy.
Repeat the cooking process with the remaining chicken until all tenders are cooked. Once done, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish before serving with your choice of mustard, ketchup, or other dipping sauces.

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Check: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that desired crispiness. If it’s too cool, the tenders will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
Dredging Technique: Ensure you coat each piece of chicken evenly to avoid any bare spots. This helps in achieving a uniform crunch.
Cooling Rack: Always use a cooling rack after frying to keep your tenders crispy. Sitting on a plate can trap steam and make them soggy.
Batch Frying: Frying too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature. It’s best to cook in small batches for maximum crispiness.

Tips and Variations

As you prepare your Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders, consider these helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience. Each of these suggestions can elevate your dish or help you adapt it to your preferences.

Storage: Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, breaded tenders for up to two months. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The crispy tenders pair beautifully with something fresh and light.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture. Adding cayenne pepper or Italian herbs can provide a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
Oven Instructions: For a healthier option, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are done.
Air Fryer Instructions: Use an air fryer to cook tenders at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway. This method yields a crispy texture with less oil.

Serving This Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

Serving Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders can be a delightful experience, transforming any meal into a celebration. Here’s how to make the most of this dish:

Perfect for Lunch: Pack these tenders for a tasty lunch option! They can be enjoyed cold or warmed up at the office or school.
Game Day Snack: They’re an ideal snack for game days. Serve them with a variety of sauces and watch them disappear quickly!
Family Dinner: These tenders make for a great family dinner. Pair them with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for balance.
Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a barbecue or a potluck, these tenders are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to eat and always garnished with smiles!
Storage Tips: Always store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheating in the oven will keep them crispy.
Seasonal Pairings: During the summer, serve with a refreshing coleslaw, and in the winter, pair with roasted vegetables for a warm meal.

FAQ

You can serve Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders with a variety of sides. Fresh salads, mashed potatoes, or even sweet potato fries make excellent accompaniments. For dipping, consider offering mustard, ketchup, or homemade sauces to enhance the flavors.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time by breading them and storing them in the fridge until you are ready to fry or bake them. This makes them a convenient option for busy weeknights or parties.

The main feature that sets Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders apart is the crunchy pretzel coating. This unique texture combined with the juicy chicken creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven to retain their crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

Conclusion

The Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders are truly a delightful combination of crunch and flavor that will satisfy any craving. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how much everyone enjoys them at the table.