I remember the first time I truly nailed my gluten free chicken tenders recipe. It was a small kitchen adventure fueled by frustration and curiosity. My family had been craving crispy chicken that everyone could enjoy, and finding an option that was gluten free but still packed with authentic flavor was like chasing a perfect seasoning blend. After several trials, I landed on a combination of spices and coatings that brought the tenders to life—crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, with a warmth from spices that felt familiar and comforting.
What surprised me most was how these gluten free chicken tenders quickly became a family tradition. My kids would eagerly ask for “that chicken you make without the gluten stuff,” and even guests who weren’t gluten-sensitive couldn’t get enough. It’s funny how something simple can create such a strong connection around the dinner table. These gluten free chicken tenders carry that magic—an authentic flavor that binds us through shared meals and smiles.
My cooking journey with making gluten free chicken tenders taught me a lot about balance. It’s not just about removing gluten but about giving the flavors a chance to shine without overwhelm. The right flour mix, a touch of garlic powder, and a little paprika do wonders. This recipe isn’t complicated, and you don’t have to be a seasoned chef to get it right. If you’re a fellow flavor seeker wanting to bring simple, wholesome, and genuinely tasty meals to your family, I invite you to join me in this kitchen adventure. Gluten free chicken tenders like these bring warmth to any meal and create those lovely moments we all cherish. Let’s make cooking joyful and nourishing—one crispy bite at a time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast strips (for the best flavor, choose organic or free-range if possible)
- 1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour (I recommend one with a blend of rice flour and tapioca starch for that crisp, light coating)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (freshly ground when you can, it adds a subtle punch)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is my fave for that gentle smoky depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (a mild sweetness that complements the chicken)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt brings out all flavors)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked for aromatic heat)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature helps the coating stick better)
- 1/4 cup milk or dairy-free milk alternative (adds moisture and richness)
- Cooking oil for frying (I use avocado oil for its high smoke point and clean taste)
You’ll find the freshest spices and gluten free flours at your local health food stores or trusted online shops specializing in gluten free ingredients. This gluten free chicken tenders recipe proves that authentic flavor comes when you focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful seasoning. Here’s a flavor secret that transformed our family dinners: mixing the spices directly into the flour coating creates a more even and robust flavor profile with every bite.
For those wanting a slightly lighter version, try baking these gluten free breaded chicken tenders rather than frying. My family loves when I add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving—it brings brightness and freshness that balances the crispy coating.
Let’s Create This Together!
- Start by patting your chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This step is key for getting your gluten free chicken tenders crispy. Moisture can make the coating soggy, so take a moment here for a bigger flavor win.
- In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk (or your dairy alternative). This mix helps your gluten free breaded chicken coating stick beautifully and keeps the chicken juicy inside.
- In a second large bowl, combine the gluten free all-purpose flour with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is your flavor foundation for these gluten free chicken tenders.
- Now comes the fun part. Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, coating it fully, then dredge it in the spiced flour mixture. Be thorough but gentle—enough flour to cover without clumping.
- For extra crispness, dip the coated tenders back into the egg mixture and then again in the spiced flour. This double dredge adds a delightful crunch to your crispy gluten free chicken strips.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In my kitchen, this step takes a couple of minutes to get the oil shimmering but not smoking.
- Fry the tenders in batches so they don’t crowd the pan. About 3-4 minutes per side usually does the trick—until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F. Your kitchen should fill with mouthwatering aromas right about now.
- Transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This little move keeps your gluten free chicken tenders crisp and light.
- If you want to finish them in the oven for extra even cooking or to hold them warm for guests, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes.
Here’s a flavor-building wisdom from my kitchen: letting the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying gives the flour and eggs time to set. The results? A crunchier, more stable crust that holds up beautifully even when dipped in sauce.
While your gluten free chicken tenders cook, consider preparing a quick homemade dip like honey mustard or a simple garlic aioli for that family-favorite combo everyone loves.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
Our family’s table lights up when this savory gluten free chicken tenders appear. We often serve them alongside crispy roasted sweet potatoes—sweet meets savory in the best way.
For a complete meal, pairing the tenders with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans works great. The crisp, vibrant veggies balance the richer flavors in the chicken tenders.
These gluten free chicken tenders shine at casual family dinners and make for a hit during weekend gatherings. I once brought these to a friend’s potluck, and they disappeared fast—guests couldn’t get enough of the authentic flavor and satisfying crunch.
Leftovers? I love transforming them into gluten free chicken tenders wraps the next day. Just add some lettuce, your favorite sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese wrapped in a gluten free tortilla. A second lunch win for home cooks who waste nothing!
Seasonal touches also come into play here. In the fall, a side of roasted butternut squash with a dusting of cinnamon pairs surprisingly well with the savory spices on the gluten free chicken tenders.
For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore this flavorful Gluten Free Chicken Tenders recipe, which offers another take on simple, satisfying flavors perfect for busy kitchens.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Does this gluten free chicken tenders recipe satisfy hearty appetites?
A: Absolutely! These tenders are crunchy, juicy, and filling. Paired with sides, they can fuel even the biggest eaters at your table.
Q: What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their gluten free chicken tenders?
A: You can easily dial down the paprika or swap smoked paprika for sweet paprika to keep the spice gentler. Another trick is serving dip on the side so everyone can customize their flavor experience.
Q: How can I prepare this gluten free chicken tenders ahead for busy weeks?
A: Great question! You can coat the chicken tenders and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. Alternatively, fry them in advance, then reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness when ready to serve.
Q: What gluten free flour blend works best for homemade gluten free chicken?
A: I trust blends with rice flour and tapioca starch for that light, crisp texture. You’ll find quality options at specialty stores or online—like the ones recommended in this Easy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders guide.
Q: Can I bake these gluten free breaded chicken tenders instead of frying?
A: Yes! Baking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, gives a nice crust with less oil. They won’t be quite the same crunch as fried but still delightful and family-approved.
Q: How do I keep the gluten free chicken tenders crispy after cooking?
A: Place them on a wire rack rather than paper towels to avoid steam buildup. Avoid stacking when warm, and consider holding them in a low oven if serving later.
Q: What are some sauces that pair well with gluten free chicken tenders?
A: Honey mustard, garlic aioli, or a classic BBQ sauce work wonders. My kids love dipping in ranch dressing too—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
For more cozy, authentic meal ideas like this, take a peek at our family-favorite soups such as the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, Chicken Pot Pie Soup, and Chicken Alfredo Soup.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
This gluten free chicken tenders recipe stands by my family’s goal of sharing authentic meals that nourish both the body and soul. My Gluten Free Chicken Tenders Flavor Secrets include:
- Adding smoked paprika to bring subtle smokiness without heat
- Double dredging to build a sturdy, crispy crust everyone loves
- Resting coated tenders before cooking for perfect texture every time
For variety, I rotate these family-tested versions:
- Classic golden with simple seasoning for the kids
- Spiced-up with cayenne flakes for the adults craving a bit of heat
- Herb-infused by adding dried thyme and oregano for a different flavor profile
My youngest enjoys the simpler flavors, while my partner loves a bolder spicy twist. This balance keeps everyone happy and coming back for more gluten free chicken tenders.
I hope you find joy and confidence making this your own signature dish. Cooking isn’t about perfection but sharing genuine, wholesome flavors that bring your loved ones together. Here’s to many flavorful family meals with your homemade gluten free chicken tenders!
If you’re eager to keep your family dinners exciting with gluten free options, try this Easy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders recipe for an alternate crispy delight.
Remember, fellow flavor seekers, your kitchen has the power to create lasting memories one crispy gluten free chicken strips bite at a time!
Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
These crispy and juicy gluten free chicken tenders are perfect for a quick and healthy meal that everyone will enjoy. Made with a flavorful gluten free coating, they’re ideal for a family dinner or tasty snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup gluten free breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Cooking oil for frying (such as vegetable or avocado oil)
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together gluten free flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk.
- Place gluten free breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, try serving with a homemade honey mustard dip or your favorite gluten free BBQ sauce.