I still remember the weeknight when my usual dinner plans fell through, and I needed something quick, satisfying, and safe for my gluten-sensitive family. That’s when I pulled out my go-to gluten free chicken tenders recipe. It’s a dish that never lets me down—crispy, flavorful, and perfect for everyday cooking. These Gluten Free Chicken Tenders quickly moved to the top of our family favorites list because they’re both easy to make and reliably delicious.
What Makes These Gluten Free Chicken Tenders Special
What makes these Gluten Free Chicken Tenders stand out is how simple the ingredients are and how straightforward the steps are. You don’t need a special pantry or complicated techniques to get restaurant-quality results right at home. It’s the kind of recipe that fits beautifully into busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or whenever you’re craving that classic crunch without the gluten.
The beauty of homemade gluten free chicken tenders is you control exactly what goes in. From selecting your favorite gluten free breading to seasoning to perfection, this dish adapts right to your tastes and lifestyle. Whether you’re after crispy gluten free chicken strips or a healthier take on gluten free fried chicken, this recipe has you covered.
I keep making these tenders because of the dependable results—they’re juicy inside, perfectly seasoned outside, and always pleasing when shared with friends and family. If you’re looking for a reliable recipe you can trust to bring people together, these Gluten Free Chicken Tenders should be your next kitchen win. I’m excited to walk you through this crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is crispy. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
For these Gluten Free Chicken Tenders, you’ll want to gather a handful of ingredients that likely already live in your kitchen. This recipe sticks to simple, familiar items so you can whip up a tasty meal without hunting for specialty products.
- 1 pound chicken tenders (or chicken breasts sliced into strips)
- 1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour (I recommend one with xanthan gum for the best texture)
- 1 cup gluten free bread crumbs (panko style works great for crispiness)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of lemon juice as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a nice depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil (like avocado or vegetable oil for frying)
If you don’t have buttermilk, no worries—I often use regular milk with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar as a quick swap in my Gluten Free Chicken Tenders.
Look for gluten free bread crumbs in the gluten free aisle or sometimes in the regular bread crumb section labeled gluten free. Sticking to panko-style crumbs gives you that extra crunch that’s a hallmark of great gluten free fried chicken.
I like making a bit extra breading and chicken since leftover Gluten Free Chicken Tenders store well in the fridge for up to three days, and you can reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy.
This recipe keeps costs reasonable because it uses pantry basics and straightforward ingredients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to dress up as a casual dinner or a party snack.
Let’s Make It Together
Here’s how to make sure your Gluten Free Chicken Tenders come out perfectly every time:
- Prep your chicken by patted drying the tenders with a paper towel. This helps the breading stick better.
- Set up a dredging station: In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. In another, mix the gluten free flour, bread crumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each tender first into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. For a thicker crust, repeat this dip-and-coat step once more.
- Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use enough to come about halfway up the sides of the chicken strips, usually 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
- Fry the tenders a few at a time, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Your kitchen will smell amazing as these cook—comfort food at its finest.
- Serve while hot or keep warm in a low oven if making in batches.
One kitchen tip I’ve learned is to keep the oil at a steady medium temperature. Too hot, and the breading burns while the chicken stays raw inside. Too cool, and the tenders soak up oil and get soggy.
If you want to save time, you can prepare the breading mixtures ahead of time and keep the chicken refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.
This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a solid choice for a busy weeknight meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
How to Serve & Enjoy
This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders recipe shines with simple, classic sides. I often serve it alongside mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. The creamy sides contrast the crispy gluten free breaded chicken beautifully.
For family gatherings or game-day snacks, these tenders are perfect dipped into ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a little barbecue sauce. The dipping sauces bring out the best in those crispy gluten free chicken strips.
My favorite way to serve this Gluten Free Chicken Tenders is during casual dinners when we need something quick yet satisfying. Friends and family always appreciate how much effort went into making something safe and delicious for everyone to enjoy.
Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer, keeping that crispy exterior intact. I’ve also sliced leftover tenders into salads, like this fresh chicken grape salad here’s a refreshing summer treat you might like.
During cooler months, I like pairing these with hearty sides like chicken and dumplings or chicken piccata pasta (check these recipes out) to round out a comforting meal.
Your Questions Answered
- Can I make Gluten Free Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked tenders also keep well for 2-3 days and reheat nicely in the oven. - What’s a good substitute for buttermilk?
A simple swap is regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. It keeps your tenders tender and juicy. - How do I adjust for more or fewer people?
Just scale the ingredients up or down. This recipe is flexible and works well whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd. - Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F on a greased baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It’s a lighter option and still yields crispy gluten free breaded chicken. - How can I make these healthier chicken tenders gluten free?
Opt for baking or air frying, and consider using almond flour or gluten free oat flour in place of bread crumbs for a more wholesome breading. - Any tips for bigger batches?
Keep cooked tenders warm on a baking rack in a low oven while frying in batches. I’ve found prepping stations and having another person help makes assembly faster. - Where can I find more ideas like this?
For more reliable dinner ideas, try these crowd-pleasers like chicken and dumplings hearty comfort food or this Easy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders recipe.
You might also enjoy this discussion on tips for gluten free breaded chicken from fellow home cooks on Reddit here.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders recipe has a special place in my kitchen because it delivers dependable, crispy, and juicy chicken every time. It’s a recipe I turn to when I want to make sure everyone enjoys dinner, gluten-free or not.
My Best Gluten Free Chicken Tenders Tips:
– Use gluten free panko for that unbeatable crunch.
– Don’t rush the breading step—double coating can make a big difference.
– Keep oil temperature steady to avoid soggy or burnt tenders.
I’ve tested variations swapping in almond flour for a grain-free option and baking instead of frying for a lighter meal. Yet, the classic crispy gluten free breaded chicken remains the family favorite that gets requested most often.
I encourage you to personalize this recipe with your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces. It’s a reliable recipe that welcomes your own touch.
If you’re new to gluten free cooking or just looking for more easy meals, I hope you’ll love the way these Gluten Free Chicken Tenders come together and bring smiles around your table. Happy cooking, friends!
For more tasty meal ideas, check out these well-loved dishes like Easy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders (Crispy, Juicy, & Healthy!) or explore other comforting recipes at AllFoodsRecipe.com.
Thanks for letting me share a recipe that feels like home for so many of us. Your kitchen will thank you!
Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Deliciously crispy and tender, these gluten free chicken tenders are perfect for a healthy meal or snack, coated with a flavorful gluten free breadcrumb mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup gluten free breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (if baking) or heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (if frying).
- In a shallow bowl, mix gluten free breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if baking, or carefully place in the hot skillet if frying.
- If baking, spray tenders lightly with cooking spray and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- If frying, cook tenders 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, serve with a side of honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. You can also bake tenders instead of frying for a lighter option.