Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Broccoli Salad
Imagine a dish where the irresistible crunch of fried chicken tenders meets the fresh, vibrant flavors of a broccoli salad. This combo isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or just a casual meal at home, Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Broccoli Salad is your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Broccoli Salad:
- 2 heads of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serving Size and Cook Time
- Serving Size: Serves 4
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Let’s Get Cooking:
First, let’s dive into making those deliciously crispy chicken tenders.
Preparing the Chicken Tenders:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken tenders in a bowl.
- Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, you’re good to go.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil.
- Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Making the Broccoli Salad:
- Blanch the Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain and immediately plunge the broccoli into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain again and pat dry.
- Prepare the Veggies:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, sliced almonds, red onion, and shredded cheese.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill the Salad:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving:
- Arrange the crispy fried chicken tenders on a serving platter.
- Serve alongside the chilled broccoli salad for a perfect balance of crunchy, savory chicken and fresh, tangy salad.
The Perfect Bite:
Each bite of this meal is a delightful contrast. The chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside. Paired with the broccoli salad, every mouthful brings together the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, the nutty crunch of almonds, and the creamy, tangy dressing.
Tips for a Flawless Dish:
- Chicken Tender Tips: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy chicken. Also, keeping the tenders similar in size helps them cook evenly.
- Broccoli Salad Perfection: Blanching the broccoli keeps it bright green and crisp. Don’t skip the ice bath—it halts the cooking process and locks in that beautiful color.
- Dressing Magic: Adjust the dressing to your taste. For a tangier salad, add more vinegar. For a sweeter touch, increase the honey.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure. The chicken tenders are a family favorite, bringing a nostalgic comfort with every bite. The broccoli salad, meanwhile, is a fresh take on a classic side, packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Together, they create a balanced meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
Fun Facts About the Ingredients:
- Broccoli: A member of the cabbage family, broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K and is known for its cancer-fighting properties.
- Chicken: One of the most versatile meats, chicken is a great source of lean protein and essential nutrients.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems are not only sweet and juicy but also packed with antioxidants like lycopene.
- Sliced Almonds: Almonds are a fantastic source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a great addition to any salad.
- Red Onion: With a milder flavor than white or yellow onions, red onions add a beautiful color and a subtle sweetness to salads.
- Shredded Cheese: Whether you choose cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend, cheese adds a creamy, savory element that elevates the salad.
A Dish to Impress:
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a weekend get-together with friends, this dish is a showstopper. The crispy chicken tenders are always a hit, and the broccoli salad offers a fresh and colorful complement. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion.
Make It Your Own:
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add your favorite herbs and spices to the chicken coating, or toss some dried cranberries or sunflower seeds into the broccoli salad. The versatility of these dishes means you can tailor them to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Closing Thoughts:
Cooking is an art, and this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Broccoli Salad recipe is your canvas. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that’s not only healthy and nutritious but also irresistibly delicious. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
And there you have it! A mouth-watering, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Share this recipe with your loved ones and watch as it quickly becomes a household favorite. Happy cooking!
