Name: Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted or plain); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; Cooking spray

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The moment you take a bite of Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders, your taste buds will dance like they just won the lottery. Picture this: crispy, golden-brown tenders coated in a tantalizing sesame crust that crunches delightfully with every bite. The aroma wafts through the air, and suddenly, you’re back at your favorite restaurant, reminiscing about that perfect meal shared with friends. It’s an explosion of savory goodness that makes you wonder why you ever settled for boring chicken strips in the first place.

Now, let’s be real—who doesn’t love a recipe that feels fancy but is as easy to whip up as a microwave dinner? Whether you’re prepping for a cozy movie night or impressing guests at a dinner party, these Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders are sure to steal the show. So grab your apron and prepare for some kitchen magic; these tenders will not only satisfy your cravings but also make you feel like a culinary superstar.

Why You'll Love This Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

This incredible Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add the perfect crunch—make sure to grab the plain ones for best results.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted or plain, these little gems bring nutty flavor and a lovely finish to each tender.
Eggs: They act as glue to hold everything together and add rich flavor—so don’t skip them!
Flour: A light dusting of all-purpose flour helps create a crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness without skimping on flavor.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder amps up the flavor profile and makes everything taste better.

For the Sauce:

Honey: This sweet nectar adds depth and balances out the savory elements perfectly.
Rice Vinegar: A splash brings acidity that brightens up the dish—trust me on this one!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it gets nice and toasty, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so those tenders don’t stick like an awkward first date.

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

Cut each chicken breast into strips—about one inch thick. This ensures even cooking and allows for maximum crunchiness. Season them lightly with salt and pepper because we’re classy like that.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, add flour; in another bowl, beat two eggs; and in a third bowl mix panko breadcrumbs with sesame seeds and garlic powder. You’re basically creating an assembly line of deliciousness here!

Step 4: Coat Those Bad Boys

Take each chicken strip, coat it in flour (shaking off excess), dip it in egg (we want it wet but not dripping), then roll it around in that glorious panko mixture until fully coated. Place them on your prepared baking sheet like an artist showcasing their masterpieces.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Slide those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach golden perfection. Flip them halfway through to ensure both sides get equally crispy—and don’t forget to sneak a taste because quality control is essential!

Step 6: Whip Up Your Sauce

While your chicken is baking away in its crunchy paradise, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. This sauce is going to be magical—trust me!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary creation surrounded by friends or alone while binge-watching your favorite show; no judgment here!

Now go ahead—put on those chef hats (or just aprons) and get ready to devour some seriously delicious Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders!

You Must Know About Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

This showstopping Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes to lock in flavor. While they soak up all that goodness, prepare your panko breading mixture. Once breaded, bake them until golden brown and crispy for the best results.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the sesame seeds for poppy seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also toss in some grated Parmesan cheese into the panko for a cheesy twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F until crispy again—nobody likes soggy tenders!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders

This professional-quality Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

There was one time I made these Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders for a family gathering, and they vanished faster than my dog chasing after a squirrel! Everyone wanted the recipe, and I felt like a rock star chef for a moment.

FAQs

What is Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders?

Panko sesame chicken tenders are a delicious and crispy dish featuring tender pieces of chicken coated in panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds. This dish combines the crunchiness of panko with the nutty flavor of sesame, creating a delightful texture and taste. Ideal as an appetizer or main course, these chicken tenders are easy to prepare and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. They offer a unique twist on traditional chicken tenders that everyone will love.

How do I make Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders crispy?

To achieve perfectly crispy Panko sesame chicken tenders, ensure you coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in flour, egg, and then the panko-sesame mixture. Frying them in hot oil helps create that golden-brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tenders. Baking them at a high temperature after frying can also enhance their crispiness while keeping them juicy inside.

Can I bake Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Yes, you can absolutely bake Panko sesame chicken tenders instead of frying. To do so, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the breaded tenders on the sheet and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Baking is a healthier option that still yields great flavor and texture.

What sauces pair well with Panko Sesame Chicken Tenders?

Panko sesame chicken tenders pair well with various dipping sauces that enhance their flavor. Popular choices include sweet and sour sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo for some heat. Additionally, soy sauce mixed with a hint of ginger or garlic can complement the sesame notes beautifully. Experimenting with different sauces allows you to customize your dining experience based on personal preferences.

Conclusion

In summary, Panko sesame chicken tenders offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them an irresistible choice for any meal. Their crispy exterior combined with tender chicken makes them perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these tenders are easy to prepare and can be paired with various delicious sauces. Enjoy making this tasty treat at home!