Crispy, golden, and irresistibly flavorful, the Ultimate Chicken Fingers recipe is the perfect way to elevate classic comfort food. These homemade chicken tenders boast a mouthwatering coating made from panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of black pepper for a savory kick. With a quick 15-minute prep time and simple shallow-frying technique, you’ll achieve perfectly crunchy chicken with tender, juicy meat inside, every time. Whether served with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce, these crowd-pleasing chicken fingers are ideal for family dinners, game-day snacks, or party appetizers. Skip the freezer aisle and treat yourself to the ultimate homemade chicken finger experience!
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating adheres well.
Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until completely covered. Place the coated tenders on a plate or baking sheet.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.
Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the cooked chicken fingers to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. Enjoy!
Calories |
2695 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 177.7 g | 228% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.9 g | 169% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 67.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 622 mg | 207% | |
| Sodium | 5918 mg | 257% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 157.7 g | 57% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.2 g | ||
| Protein | 126.1 g | 252% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.4 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 440 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 9.6 mg | 53% | |
| Potassium | 1209 mg | 26% | |
*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.