Breaded Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders are a popular dish featuring strips of chicken breast coated in a seasoned breadcrumb or batter mixture and deep-fried or baked until golden and crispy. They are a staple of American casual dining and fast-food culture, often served with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch.

🍳 View the full Breaded Chicken Tenders recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein from the chicken but also tends to be high in fat and calories due to the frying process and breading. A typical serving of about 4-5 tenders can range from 300 to 500 calories, providing a good source of protein but limited in other essential nutrients unless paired with vegetables.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	380 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	22 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	680 mg
Iron	1.8 mg
Calcium	30 mg
Potassium	320 mg
Phosphorus	250 mg
Niacin (B3)	8 mg
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg
Magnesium	25 mg
Zinc	1.2 mg

Per 4 pieces (140 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Chicken tenders are a relatively modern American invention, gaining widespread popularity in the 1980s and 1990s as a kid-friendly menu item that eventually became a comfort food for all ages. Nutritionally, they are often seen as a 'gateway' protein, making lean chicken more appealing to picky eaters through their crunchy, flavorful coating.