Olivia Carter
Chicken tenders are a versatile and delicious protein option that can be easily prepared in a cast iron skillet. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a quick and easy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
One of the advantages of using a cast iron skillet is that it provides even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked chicken tenders with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Plus, the skillet retains heat well, allowing you to achieve a nice, golden brown color on the outside of the tenders.
To start, you’ll need to prepare the chicken tenders by seasoning them with your favorite spices. A simple blend of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder works well, but feel free to get creative and experiment with different seasoning combinations.
Next, preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of cooking oil to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking. Carefully place the seasoned chicken tenders in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cooking the tenders in batches, if necessary, will ensure that they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
Preparing the chicken tenders
Before cooking the chicken tenders, it’s important to properly prepare them. Here’s how to do it:
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1. Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. 2. Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure even coverage. 3. Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. 4. In a separate dish, beat the eggs until well mixed. Dip each flour-coated chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. 5. Finally, return the chicken tenders to the flour and coat them again, pressing gently to help the flour adhere. |
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By properly preparing the chicken tenders, you’ll create a crispy and flavorful coating when cooking them in a cast iron skillet.
Seasoning the chicken tenders
Before cooking your chicken tenders in a cast iron skillet, it’s essential to properly season them to enhance their flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to season your chicken tenders:
- Start by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water to remove any excess debris.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence.
- In a small bowl, combine your preferred seasonings. This can include options like salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other herbs or spices you desire.
- Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken tenders, making sure to cover all sides.
- Using your hands, gently massage the seasoning into the chicken tenders to ensure even distribution.
- Once seasoned, allow the chicken tenders to rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Properly seasoning your chicken tenders is crucial for creating a delicious and flavorful dish. Take a moment to prepare the chicken tenders with your favorite seasonings, and you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering meal!
Cooking the chicken tenders
Once the chicken tenders are marinated and ready to cook, it’s time to heat up your cast iron skillet. Place it over medium heat and wait for it to get hot.
While the skillet is heating up, remove the marinated chicken tenders from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of oil and let it heat up as well. You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or any other oil of your choice.
Place the chicken tenders in the skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Try not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can prevent the chicken tenders from browning properly.
If needed, you can cook the chicken tenders in batches, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly and brown nicely.
Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the tenders even more flavorful and tender.
Now, your deliciously cooked chicken tenders are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or as a main dish alongside some tasty sides.
Serving the chicken tenders
Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy!
You can plate the chicken tenders on a serving dish and garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Side dish pairing suggestions:
If you’re looking for some delicious sides to accompany your chicken tenders, here are a few suggestions:
- Mashed potatoes: Velvety smooth mashed potatoes are the perfect comfort food to serve alongside your chicken tenders. They provide a creamy and filling addition to your meal.
- Steamed vegetables: Opt for a colorful medley of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower to add some nutrition and vibrant hues to your plate.
- Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese is a refreshing and versatile side option.
Sauce recommendations:
To elevate the flavors of your chicken tenders, consider pairing them with one of these delicious sauces:
- Honey mustard sauce: The sweet and tangy combination of honey and mustard pairs perfectly with the savory chicken tenders.
- Barbecue sauce: A smoky and tangy barbecue sauce can add a bold and finger-licking taste to your chicken tenders.
- Buffalo sauce: If you like a bit of heat, toss your chicken tenders in some zesty buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Remember to serve some extra sauce on the side for dipping!
Now that you have all the essentials, sit down, take a bite of your perfectly cooked chicken tenders, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors!
FAQ
What are chicken tenders?
Chicken tenders are cuts of chicken meat that come from the breast area of the chicken. They are small and thin, making them perfect for quick cooking methods.
Can I cook chicken tenders in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can absolutely cook chicken tenders in a cast iron skillet. In fact, using a cast iron skillet is a great way to get a crispy crust on the chicken due to its ability to evenly distribute heat.
