Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders: Cost, Recipe, and Nutritional Information
Longhorn Steakhouse serves up crispy, tender hand-breaded chicken tenders as part of their Chicken, Seafood & More menu.
Check the complete Longhorn Menu
The chicken tenders are made with tender white meat chicken. They are crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully soft and juicy on the inside, delivering a savory and flavorful bite.
Longhorn’s chicken tenders come in two sizes: 9-piece or 12-piece servings, both accompanied by honey mustard sauce. For an even more satisfying meal, you can pair them with a side of fries or a fresh salad to enhance the flavors. Perfect for a quick snack or a full meal, these tenders are a crowd favorite.
Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce made with honey, mustard, and a hint of spice, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
Honey Wheat Bread: A soft, slightly sweet bread made with whole wheat flour and a touch of honey for added flavor.
Chicken Breast: Lean and tender cuts of chicken, ideal for grilling, baking, or sautéing.
- Wheat: A grain commonly used in baking and cooking, rich in carbohydrates and a staple in many diets.
- Dairy: Foods derived from milk, including cheese, yogurt, and butter, often rich in calcium and protein.
- Gluten: A protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that gives dough its elasticity and structure.
- Soy: A legume often used in plant-based foods, rich in protein and commonly found in products like tofu and soy milk.
| Nutrient | Per Portion (6 ct) | Per Portion (9 ct) |
|---|---|---|
| Trans Fat (g) | 0 | 0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 680 | 1030 |
| Calories from Fat | 200 | 300 |
| Sugar (g) | Less Than 1 | Less Than 1 |
| Fiber (g) | 2 | 4 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 19 | 28 |
| Cholesterol (mg) | 80 | 120 |
| Total Fat (g) | 22 | 23 |
| Protein (g) | 36 | 53 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 4 | 6 |
If you’re a fan of the crispy, mouthwatering chicken tenders from Longhorn Steakhouse, you’re about to discover a game-changing recipe! This simple guide allows you to replicate the irresistible crunch and juicy goodness of their iconic hand-breaded chicken tenders, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a quick snack, these homemade tenders are packed with flavor and can be whipped up in a flash. Ready to get started? Let’s jump right in!
packed with flavor and can be whipped up in a flash. Ready to get started? Let’s jump right in!
Recipe Snapshot
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 4
To prepare these delicious chicken tenders, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Breading:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- For Frying: Vegetable oil (approximately 3-4 cups for deep frying)
Detailed Guide to Making Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders
Preparing hand-breaded chicken tenders at home is simpler than it seems! Just follow these easy-to-follow steps to create crispy, golden tenders bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
For tender, flavorful chicken, let the chicken soak in buttermilk for a minimum of 30 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this step, but marinating is highly recommended for optimal taste and texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls:
- Flour Mixture – In the first bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Flour Coating – In a third bowl, reserve half of the flour mixture for double-dipping.
- Egg Wash – In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Take the chicken out of the buttermilk and let any excess liquid drip off.
- Coat it again in the reserved flour mixture to get that signature crispy crunch.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, coating it evenly.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to avoid sogginess.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
- Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, frying them in batches to prevent overcrowding.
- Remove from the oil and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a minute before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce for an added burst of flavor!
Perfect Side Dishes and Dipping Sauces to Pair with Chicken Tenders
A delicious meal deserves the ideal sides! Here are some classic pairings to elevate your chicken tenders:
Mac & Cheese – Rich, cheesy goodness that pairs wonderfully with tenders.
Garden Salad – A light, fresh salad to add a crisp contrast to the meal.
Coleslaw – A tangy, refreshing side that complements the crunch of the tenders.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes that perfectly balance the crispy texture of the chicken.
French Fries – Crispy, golden fries that never disappoint.
Dipping Sauce Options
Buffalo Sauce – Ideal for those who crave a spicy kick.
Honey Mustard – A delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
BBQ Sauce – Smoky and subtly sweet, a perfect dip for your tenders.
Ranch Dressing – A creamy, cool classic that pairs perfectly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders
- Rest the Tenders – Let the chicken rest on a wire rack to keep them crispy and delicious.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan – Fry the tenders in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- Double Coating for Extra Crunch – This step guarantees that satisfying, extra-crispy texture.
- Monitor the Oil Temperature – Maintain a steady temperature of 350°F for perfectly crispy, non-greasy tenders.
Baked Option for a Healthier Twist
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try these modifications:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Lightly spray the breaded tenders with cooking spray to get that crispy texture.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.
For an added crunch, broil for the final 2 minutes.
