Simple Chicken Tenders

These simple chicken tenders only require a handful of ingredients and are really quick to make!

We are a bit chicken tender family over here (I was a chicken tender kid, and absolutely still am), and my son seems to be a fan too. I wanted to make a super simple recipe so I could have a big batch of them in the house! We love these with dips – ketchup, of course, for my son. These are so quick to make and reheat great!

BABY LED WEANING

For information on how to safely serve foods to babies depending on their age (plus so much more), I recommend Solid Starts. The app is free and has tons of information!

ALLERGENS

This recipe has eggs and wheat (and possibly other allergens depending on the breadcrumbs you use).

If you’d like to try it with an egg replacer, this one available online at Target. This post highlights other ideas for egg substitutes in recipes.

STORAGE

I stored these in the fridge for 4 days, then transferred to the freezer. They can stay in the freezer for 2-3 months.

To freeze I would line a baking sheet with foil or parchment then lay in a single layer and place in the freezer. Once frozen (give it a few hours) you can transfer to another container. This way they are individually frozen rather than all stuck together in one huge block!

To reheat I would either thaw in the fridge overnight then air fry, or air fry from frozen.

SUBSTITUTES & ADD INS

Any of your favorite spices and seasonings can be used here!

TOOLS USED/RECOMMENDED

Meat thermometer – I will never cook meat without using one! We have a expensive one because my husband cooks meat all the time, but this one is affordable and looks great. I like that it has printed on their the safe temperatures for meat so you never need to look it up!

Air Fryer – This is our air fryer/toaster oven that I use to cook SO so many things. Pricy, but really worth it imo!

More easy and delicious recipes for your little one found here!

Simple Chicken Tenders

A quick and easy chicken tender recipe that's toddler approved!

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Prep Time:10 minutes mins

Cook Time:10 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 small package of chicken tenderloins 1-2 lbs
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular (I did a mix!)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees
• Remove the tendon from the tenders by gripping it with a paper towel, then place fork prongs between it, and pull through. It will remove the tendon and break the tender into 2 pieces (this step is optional!)
• In one bowl, beat the egg.
• In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add your chicken to the bowl of egg and ensure each piece is fully coated. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray.
• Cook the chicken tenders for 8-10 minutes, until they are golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
• Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Let me know if you give this one a try! Does your little one like dips? Which is their fave?

This post was all about my simple chicken tenders recipe.