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Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders have become a cherished favorite among food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile option that fits seamlessly into various occasions, whether it's a cozy family dinner, a lively party, or an exhilarating game day. The combination of crispy, tender chicken enveloped in a sweet and spicy glaze makes these tenders an irresistible choice for anyone craving a flavorful bite.

Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders

Discover the perfect recipe for Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders, a delicious dish that strikes the ideal balance between crispy texture and bold flavors. These tender strips of chicken are coated with a crunchy panko breadcrumb layer and glazed with a sweet chili sauce. Ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to game day, this easy-to-make treat will impress your loved ones without requiring advanced cooking skills. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

Fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions (for garnish, optional)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure they fry properly. Set the tenders aside in a bowl.

    Set Up the Breading Stations: Prepare your breading stations by placing the flour mixture in a shallow bowl. Mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Finally, pour the panko breadcrumbs into a third bowl, ready for coating.

      Coat the Tenders: Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it gets an even coating. Gently shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs. Press down lightly to help the crumbs adhere well.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in the vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want a thin layer of oil that covers the bottom of the pan to achieve a crispy texture.

          Fry the Chicken Tenders: Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil one by one, ensuring they are in a single layer with some space between each piece to avoid overcrowding. Fry the tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

            Create the Sweet Chili Sauce Glaze: While the chicken is frying, take a small saucepan over medium heat and add the sweet chili sauce. Gently warm it until it begins to simmer. For an added tangy flavor, consider squeezing in a splash of fresh lime juice.

              Glaze the Tenders: Once the chicken tenders are done frying, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. While still warm, drizzle or brush the sweet chili sauce generously over each tender, ensuring they are well coated.

                Garnish and Serve: Carefully transfer the glazed sweet chili chicken tenders to a serving platter. Optional: sprinkle with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for an added burst of flavor and color. Serve with lime wedges on the side to allow guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over the tenders just before eating.

                  Enjoy your Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders!

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