Soy-Free Spicy Chicken Tenders

Crispy, flavorful, and completely soy-free, these Spicy Chicken Tenders are your next go-to indulgence! Perfectly seasoned with a bold blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and onion powders, these tenders deliver just the right amount of heat and crunch in every bite. Coated in a light buttermilk batter and crispy panko breadcrumbs, they can be baked for a lighter option or fried for ultimate crispiness. Ideal for those avoiding soy or looking for a homemade alternative to store-bought options, these tenders are ready in just 35 minutes and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether served as an appetizer or a satisfying main, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to become a new family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken tenders
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 0.5 tsp Cayenne pepper
• 0.5 tsp Dried oregano
• 1 cup Buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 large Eggs
• 1.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup Cooking oil (for frying or brushing)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat your cooking oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C) if frying.

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried oregano.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until fully combined.

Step 4

In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs for coating.

Step 5

Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better.

Step 6

Dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 7

Next, dip the chicken tender into the buttermilk-egg mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.

Step 8

Finally, coat the chicken tender in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs evenly.

Step 9

If baking, place the coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly brush or spray with cooking oil. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 10

If frying, carefully lower each coated chicken tender into the hot oil and fry for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 11

Allow the chicken tenders to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1086.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2918.7

Total Fat 154.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 608.8mg	0%
Sodium 5999.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 251.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.7g	0%
Total Sugars 20.7g
Protein 136.3g	0%

Vitamin D 209.0IU	0%
Calcium 488.0mg	0%
Iron 15.9mg	0%
Potassium 1927.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.3%

Protein: 18.5%

Carbs: 34.2%