Easy Smothered Chicken Tenders Recipe
This easy smothered chicken tenders recipe delivers juicy, golden-brown chicken tenders topped with a rich, creamy pan gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh side salad for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Equipment
- Nonstick or cast-iron skillet
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound chicken tenders 8 to 10 pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra-light olive oil plus more as needed
- 2 tablespoons ¼ stick unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth store-bought or homemade
- ½ cup low-fat or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the Coating Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ½ cup of the flour with the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until it becomes frothy.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip a chicken tender into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s coated all over, then roll it in the flour mixture. Make sure the flour mixture adheres well, then set the tender aside. Repeat this process with the remaining tenders.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Line a plate with paper towels and set it near the stove. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Cook the tenders in batches, if needed, for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part. Once cooked, transfer the tenders to the prepared plate.
- Prepare the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until the mixture becomes golden and smooth. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking, then add the milk. Stir the mixture as it comes to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to cook for about 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Finish and Serve: Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, spooning the warm gravy over them. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Pair these tenders with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or a pinch of onion powder to the gravy.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour substitute for the coating and gravy.
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