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Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders are a delightful fusion of crispy goodness and a tantalizing sweet-spicy flavor that can elevate any meal or gathering. Whether you're looking for a fun snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a main dish that pairs perfectly with rice or salad, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. The crispy texture, combined with the unique flavor profile of sweet chili sauce, creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.

Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders recipe that combines crispy chicken with a delightful sweet-spicy glaze. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or game day snacks, these tenders impress with their juicy texture and unique flavor. Learn how to marinate, coat, and fry them to achieve the perfect crunch. Plus, enjoy tips on making homemade sweet chili sauce that enhances this delectable dish. Elevate your meals with this flavorful and versatile recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for extra heat)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

      - Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.

        Prepare the Coating:

          - In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour.

            - In a second bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

              Coat the Chicken:

                - Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.

                  - Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off the excess.

                    - Dip it back into the buttermilk, then coat it well in panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a cooling rack or plate.

                      Make the Sweet Chili Sauce:

                        - In a small saucepan, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha.

                          - Heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside for serving.

                            Fry the Chicken:

                              - In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

                                - Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

                                  - Transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

                                    Serve:

                                      - Plate the crispy chicken tenders and drizzle generously with the sweet chili sauce.

                                        - Garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.

                                          Enjoy your Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or simply on their own as a delightful snack!

                                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 4 servings