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Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Discover the irresistible Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, where crispy meets flavorful in a delightful twist on a classic dish. Perfect for family dinners or game day, these tenders are marinated in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and spices, then coated for a crunchy finish. Easy to make and adaptable to everyone’s tastes, this recipe guarantees a satisfying experience that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for a perfect meal or appetizer!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) chicken tenders

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Cooking oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, whisk the egg until well blended. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

      Bread the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken tenders from the refrigerator. Dredge each tender in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.

        Fry the Tenders: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken tenders to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

          Drizzle with Cowboy Butter: As you remove the chicken from the skillet, drizzle some extra melted butter (optional) over the hot tenders and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for garnish.

            Serve: Serve the Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauce, hot sauce, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings