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The Most Amazing Homemade Chicken Tenders – Crispy and Gluten-Free

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, gluten-free delicacy that the entire family will adore, look no further than these amazing homemade chicken tenders. Perfectly crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, these tenders make for a fantastic meal or snack, whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger feast. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

The Appeal of Homemade Chicken Tenders

There’s something deeply satisfying about making chicken tenders at home. Not only can you control the ingredients, ensuring they’re fresh and wholesome, but you can also customise the flavours to suit your personal taste. For those following a gluten-free diet, this homemade version offers a safe and delectable option, far surpassing any store-bought alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your crispy and gluten-free chicken tenders, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 500g chicken breast fillets (cut into strips)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavour)

For the Breading:

• ½ cup gluten-free bread crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup almond flour (or any gluten-free flour of your choice)
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or thyme)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (for added flavour)

For The Coating:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)

For Frying:

• Oil for frying (like sunflower or vegetable oil)

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken strips dry with kitchen paper. In a large bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coat the chicken strips in the spice mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally in the refrigerator. This step helps to infuse flavour into the meat.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare three separate shallow dishes:

• In the first bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
• In the second bowl, mix the gluten-free bread crumbs, almond flour, dried herbs, and onion powder.
• The third bowl will remain empty for the marinated chicken strips.

3. Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken strip from the marinade and dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Press down gently to help the coating adhere. Place the coated tenders on a large plate or tray.

4. Fry to Perfection

In a large frying pan, heat about 1 cm of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot enough (test by dropping in a breadcrumb — it should sizzle), carefully place the chicken tenders in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Fry in batches if necessary.

Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F) for safety. Transfer the cooked tenders to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

These gluten-free chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them hot with a selection of dips, such as homemade honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a zesty ranch dressing. You could also pair them with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

For a fun twist, try tossing the freshly fried tenders in a spice mix or a sauce of your choice, such as buffalo sauce or sweet chill sauce, before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade crispy gluten-free chicken tenders are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they offer a wonderful way to cater to dietary needs without compromising flavour or texture. With just a little preparation and care, you can create a dish that will be a firm favourite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking with these amazing chicken tenders!

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