Can I cook chicken tenders and fries together in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook both together, but timing is crucial. Start the fries first as they typically need longer, then add the chicken tenders halfway through to ensure even cooking without overcooking either.

How Long Do Chicken Tenders and Fries Stay Fresh in the Fridge?

Leftover chicken tenders and fries will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. For best results, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to restore that crispy texture.

Is chicken tenders and fries healthy?

While chicken tenders and fries can be a tasty treat, they're often high in fats, calories, and sodium. Opting for baked or air-fried versions with minimal oil can make them slightly healthier, but moderation is key.

Why did McDonald's stop selling chicken tenders?

McDonald's discontinued their chicken tenders to streamline their menu and focus on core items. The decision aimed to simplify kitchen operations and cater to more popular, efficient offerings that better aligned with customer demand trends.

How many calories are in 2 chicken tenders and fries?

The calorie count varies by preparation method, but generally, two chicken tenders and a serving of fries could range from 350 to 500 calories. Baking or air frying reduces this slightly compared to deep-frying.

Can I Freeze Chicken Tenders for Later Use?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked breaded chicken tenders for up to three months. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and fry or bake as usual.

Perfect Pair: The Best Chicken Tenders & Fries Ever Created

Description

This recipe is a celebration of two classic comfort foods—crispy chicken tenders and golden, crispy fries. The chicken tenders are juicy on the inside and perfectly crunchy on the outside, while the fries are seasoned to perfection. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
2 large eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Fries:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

Ranch dressing or honey mustard sauce
Ketchup

Instructions

For the Chicken Tenders:

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.
Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). In another dish, beat the eggs. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

For the Fries:

Prep the Potatoes: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Parboil the Fries: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato fries and cook for 5-7 minutes, just until they start to soften. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Season the Fries: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Toss the parboiled fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bake the Fries: Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: This recipe employs a combination of frying and baking methods to achieve the best results for both the chicken tenders and the fries.
Cuisine: American