why make this recipe
Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a favorite dish, bringing a fun and tangy flavor to your table. Marinating the chicken in dill pickle juice makes it incredibly juicy and flavorful. This recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and perfect for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a tasty meal for a family dinner or an easy snack for game day, these chicken tenders are sure to satisfy.
how to make Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 12 chicken tenders (1 1/4 pound total)
- 1 1/4 cup dill pickle juice plus more for serving
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil spray
Directions:
- Place the chicken in a shallow bowl and cover with pickle juice. Cover the bowl and marinate it in the fridge for 8 hours.
- After marinating, drain the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the pickle juice marinade.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the whole egg, egg white, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- In another shallow bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs together.
- For each piece of chicken, dip it in the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken and shake off any excess.
- Generously spray both sides of the chicken with olive oil.
- For oven instructions: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet, spray the top generously with olive oil, and bake until golden (about 8-10 minutes). Turn the chicken and bake for an additional 6 minutes.
- For air fryer instructions: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
how to serve Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders
Serve these tasty chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. They make a perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries. You can also serve additional dill pickle slices on the side for an extra flavor boost.
how to store Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders
To store the leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy again.
tips to make Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders
- Make sure to marinate the chicken long enough to really soak up the pickle flavor.
- Don’t rush the drying step; dry chicken tenders ensure the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Spray the chicken well with olive oil to help it brown nicely in the oven or air fryer.
variation
For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Alternatively, you can try using different flavored pickles, like spicy or garlic dill, for a unique taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts! Just cut them into strips or medallions to ensure even cooking.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make your chicken tenders gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Just ensure they are completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months.
Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken in a shallow bowl and cover with dill pickle juice. Cover the bowl and marinate it in the fridge for 8 hours.
- After marinating, drain the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the pickle juice marinade.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- In another shallow bowl, mix the seasoned and panko breadcrumbs together.
- For each piece of chicken, dip it in the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken and shake off any excess.
- Generously spray both sides of the chicken with olive oil.
- For oven instructions: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet, spray the top generously with olive oil, and bake until golden (about 8-10 minutes). Turn the chicken and bake for an additional 6 minutes.
- For air fryer instructions: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.