Potato Crunchy Tenders offer a delightful twist on traditional chicken tenders by incorporating garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes into the breading. This innovative approach results in a crispy, flavorful coating that elevates the classic dish, making it a favorite for both children and adults. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

½ cup vegetable oil for frying
1½ cups milk
1 egg
1 (7.6-ounce) package garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
1½ pounds chicken tenders

Directions

Prepare the Coatings: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. In a separate shallow bowl, mix the instant mashed potatoes, salt, and ground black pepper.
Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering.
Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the potato mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Fry the Tenders: Place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 7 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.
Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, accompanied by your choice of dipping sauces or sides.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving:

Calories: 556
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 139mg
Sodium: 945mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 45g

Potato Crunchy Tenders: A Crispy and Flavorful Twist on Classic Chicken

Potato Crunchy Tenders are a delicious and innovative take on traditional chicken tenders, offering a crispy texture and bold garlic flavor. Unlike classic breaded tenders that rely on flour or breadcrumbs, this recipe uses garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes for a unique, crunchy coating. The result is a dish that is not only packed with texture and flavor but also easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, a fun appetizer for a party, or a kid-friendly meal, Potato Crunchy Tenders are a fantastic option. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy potato coating, and a hint of garlic makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why Potato Crunchy Tenders Are a Must-Try

Chicken tenders are a staple in many households, but this recipe offers a creative twist that sets it apart. Here’s why Potato Crunchy Tenders deserve a spot on your meal rotation:

Unique Coating: The use of instant mashed potatoes instead of traditional breadcrumbs provides an extra-crispy texture and rich garlic flavor.
Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Serving Options: These tenders pair well with a variety of sides and dipping sauces, making them suitable for any meal.
Kid-Friendly: Children love crispy chicken tenders, and the extra crunch makes them even more enjoyable.
Perfect for Parties: Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these tenders are sure to be a hit at gatherings.

The Secret to a Crispy Coating

The key to achieving the perfect crispiness lies in the use of garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes. These potato flakes create a light yet crunchy crust that adheres well to the chicken, ensuring an even coating. When fried, the potato crust develops a golden brown color with a satisfying crunch.

Additionally, the combination of egg and milk helps the potato coating stick to the chicken tenders, preventing it from falling off during frying. Cooking the tenders in just the right amount of oil at the correct temperature ensures they cook evenly and stay crispy without becoming greasy.

The Role of Garlic in Enhancing Flavor

Garlic is a fundamental ingredient in many savory dishes, and its inclusion in this recipe enhances the flavor profile of the tenders. The garlic seasoning in the instant mashed potatoes provides a rich, aromatic taste that complements the juicy chicken. Garlic is also known for its numerous health benefits, including immune system support and anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish both flavorful and beneficial.

Perfect Pairings for Potato Crunchy Tenders

Potato Crunchy Tenders are versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
French Fries or Potato Wedges: Double down on the potato goodness by serving these tenders with crispy fries or seasoned potato wedges.
Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the crispy tenders.
Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Balance the meal with a side of broccoli, carrots, green beans, or zucchini.
Mac and Cheese: A classic comfort food combination, mac and cheese adds a creamy, cheesy element to the meal.
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the tenders.

Health Benefits of Potato Crunchy Tenders

While fried chicken tenders are often considered indulgent, this recipe offers some nutritional benefits:

High-Quality Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health.
Garlic’s Health Properties: Garlic is rich in antioxidants and may support heart health and immune function.
Customizable for Healthier Options: The dish can be made healthier by baking instead of frying or using an air fryer to reduce oil content.

How to Make a Healthier Version

If you’re looking to enjoy Potato Crunchy Tenders with a healthier twist, consider these modifications:

Air Frying: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy result with less oil.
Baking: Bake at 400°F on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping once to ensure even crispiness.
Reduce Sodium: Opt for a low-sodium instant mashed potato mix or make your own seasoning blend to control salt intake.
Use Whole-Grain Alternatives: If you prefer a different coating, whole-grain panko or crushed whole-grain crackers can provide a nutritious alternative.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Potato Crunchy Tenders

Preheat the Oil Properly: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the tenders to prevent them from absorbing excess oil and becoming greasy.
Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the tenders in batches to maintain an even cooking temperature and ensure a crispy exterior.
Drain on Paper Towels: Place the cooked tenders on paper towels to remove any excess oil and keep them crispy.
Use Fresh Chicken Tenders: For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh chicken tenders rather than frozen ones.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Potato Crunchy Tenders store well and can be enjoyed later if properly stored and reheated:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

Variations to Try

If you want to experiment with different flavors and textures, consider these variations:

Spicy Potato Crunchy Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
Parmesan Garlic Tenders: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the potato flakes for extra cheesy flavor.
Herb-Infused Coating: Add dried oregano, basil, or thyme to the mashed potato mixture for an herby touch.
Buffalo Potato Tenders: Toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy variation.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

Potato Crunchy Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served for various occasions, including:

Weeknight Dinners: A quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.
Game Day Snacks: Perfect for serving alongside other finger foods during sports events.
Party Appetizers: A great addition to any party platter, paired with an assortment of dipping sauces.
Kid-Friendly Meals: A guaranteed hit with children, especially when served with a fun dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Potato Crunchy Tenders are a fantastic twist on classic chicken tenders, offering a crispy, flavorful, and satisfying dish. The use of garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes as a coating creates a unique texture and taste that elevates the standard breaded chicken tender.

Pin597

597 Shares