These crispy potato-coated chicken tenders are the ultimate quick-fix dinner when you need something satisfying and different from the usual rotation.
With a golden, crunchy exterior made from seasoned instant mashed potatoes, each bite delivers a perfectly crisp coating wrapped around juicy, tender chicken.
Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe comes together in just minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
The unique potato crust adds a savory depth and irresistible crunch that makes these tenders stand out from traditional breaded versions.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 (7.6-ounce) package garlic-flavored instant mashed potatoes
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
Directions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until fully combined.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix the instant mashed potato flakes with salt and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the milk mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess liquid to drip off.
- Press each tender into the potato mixture, coating all sides evenly with the flakes.
- Carefully place coated tenders into the hot oil and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving.
Chefs Notes
- For extra crunch, press the potato coating firmly onto the chicken before frying.
- Make sure the oil stays at a steady medium heat to avoid burning the coating before the chicken cooks through.
- You can swap garlic-flavored mashed potatoes for plain and add your own seasoning blend if preferred.
- These tenders pair well with simple dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue.