Discover the Joy of Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders Today!

Indulge in the irresistible combination of crunchy pecans and juicy chicken with our Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders. This delectable dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it the perfect addition to your mealtime lineup. Prepare to impress your taste buds and delight your family with this simple yet impressive recipe.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders

Prepare Dredging Stations

Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. In the second, beat the eggs until light and fluffy. In the third, place the finely chopped pecans.

Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the chopped pecans, coating it thoroughly.

Heat Oil

In a large skillet, pour about an inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until hot.

Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Drain and Serve

Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfecting Your Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders

To achieve maximum crispiness, it’s crucial to maintain the right oil temperature when frying the chicken tenders. Aim for a temperature between 350-375°F (177-191°C) for optimal results. Additionally, be sure to fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan, which can cause the oil temperature to drop and result in soggy tenders.

For the perfect pecan coating, make sure to finely chop the nuts to ensure they adhere evenly to the chicken. If you prefer a thicker coating, feel free to increase the amount of pecans used. As for storage and reheating, the chicken tenders can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 400°F (204°C) oven for 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Nutritional Information for Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders

Each serving of Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders (approximately 4 tenders) contains approximately 360 calories, 22g of protein, 22g of fat, and 14g of carbohydrates. Pecans are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, making this dish a relatively nutritious option. For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying, though the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Pecan Upside Down Cake
• Heavenly Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
• Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do baking chicken tenders take?

If you prefer to bake the Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders instead of frying, they will typically take 20-25 minutes to cook in a 400°F (204°C) oven. Be sure to flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Is pecan-crusted chicken healthy?

Pecan-crusted chicken can be a relatively healthy option, especially when compared to traditional fried chicken. Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. However, the breading and frying process can add extra calories and fat. For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them.

What is the secret to crispy tenders?

The key to achieving crispy Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders is to maintain the right oil temperature when frying and to avoid overcrowding the pan. Frying the chicken in batches and ensuring the oil is between 350-375°F (177-191°C) will help create a deliciously crunchy exterior.

How long to cook fully cooked chicken tenders?

If you’re using fully cooked chicken tenders, the cooking time will be much shorter. Simply fry the coated tenders for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are heated through and the pecan coating is golden brown. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders are a delightful and versatile dish that will satisfy your cravings for something crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying. With the perfect balance of savory and nutty flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Serve them as a main course, appetizer, or even as a tasty snack – the possibilities are endless! So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate Crispy Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders experience.

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