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Before embarking on the journey to create your Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders, it’s essential to start with clean chicken. Rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water removes any residual blood or impurities, ensuring a fresher flavor. However, rinsing is just the first step. After rinsing, pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can hinder the dredging process and lead to soggy tenders. Dry chicken helps the flour adhere better and ultimately results in a crispier crust after frying.

Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders

Discover the deliciousness of Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders, a perfect blend of crispy texture and sweet-and-spicy flavor that delights both kids and adults. Whether for a family dinner or game day snacks, this versatile dish is ideal as an appetizer or part of a buffet. Learn how to make this easy recipe with step-by-step instructions, tips for achieving the perfect glaze, and suggestions for tasty sides. Dive in and elevate your mealtime experience!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 cup sweet chili sauce (plus extra for serving)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare Chicken: Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside.

    Set Up Dredging Station: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

      Coat the Chicken:

        - Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.

          - Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.

            - Finally, coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet.

              Fry the Tenders: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

                Glaze the Tenders: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken tenders and pour the sweet chili sauce over them. Toss gently until they are evenly coated.

                  Serve: Plate the sweet chili chicken tenders garnished with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings