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The heart of our Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders lies in the sweet chili sauce, a condiment that has gained immense popularity across various cuisines. Originating from Southeast Asian cooking, sweet chili sauce is a luscious blend of sugar, vinegar, and chili peppers, resulting in a flavor that is both sweet and slightly spicy. Its versatility allows it to be used as a dipping sauce, marinade, or glaze, making it a staple in many kitchens worldwide.

Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders

Discover the mouthwatering delight of Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders! This tasty recipe transforms a family favorite into something extraordinary, melding the crispy texture of fried chicken with the perfect mix of sweet and spicy flavors. Ideal for game nights, family dinners, or festive gatherings, these tenders are sure to please every palate. With a straightforward preparation process and simple ingredients, you'll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 cup sweet chili sauce (plus additional for serving)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Start by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water. Use paper towels to pat them dry thoroughly, then set them aside on a clean plate.

    Set Up Dredging Station: Create a three-bowl assembly for coating the chicken. In the first shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined. Fill the third bowl with panko breadcrumbs.

      Coat the Chicken:

        - One by one, take each chicken tender and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour.

          - Next, dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip back into the bowl.

            - Finally, coat the tender with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they adhere well. Transfer the coated chicken tenders onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

              Fry the Tenders: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each tender for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

                Glaze the Tenders: In a large mixing bowl, take the cooked chicken tenders and pour the sweet chili sauce over the top. Gently toss the tenders until they are evenly coated in the sauce, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

                  Serve: Arrange the sweet chili chicken tenders on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color. Accompany with lime wedges for a zesty kick and serve extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings