Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tenders Recipe
Gordon Ramsay chicken tenders are a game changer in the kitchen! I used to think frozen tenders were fine until I bit into a crispy, golden piece, bursting with flavor and moisture. Making them from scratch isn’t just a statement; it’s a revelation. With just a few simple steps, you’ll bring the restaurant experience home, saving time and mastering flavors that sing in every bite. Trust me, once you get the hang of this recipe, there’s no turning back. So roll up those sleeves and let’s get cooking!
Recipe at a Glance – gordon ramsay chicken tenders
Perfect Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start with mise en place. Slice chicken into strips, about 2.5 cm wide, and prepare breading stations—flour, egg wash, and panko.
- In a bowl, whisk 2 eggs with a splash of milk. This egg wash will glue your breading to the chicken. Don’t overbeat—just enough to combine.
- Coat each chicken piece: dip in flour, then egg wash, and finally roll in the panko mix, pressing firmly to ensure coverage.
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C. Arrange tenders in a single layer for even cooking.
- Cook tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for a golden-brown color and crispy coating.
- Check internal temperature; it should reach 75°C. If below, return to the air fryer for a few more minutes.
- For extra crunch, lightly spray tenders with oil before cooking. Let them rest on a wire rack in a warm oven until ready to serve.
Nutrition
Notes
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Give us 5 stars and comment!Key Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Tenders
Essential Proteins
For Gordon Ramsay chicken tenders, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are your best bet. Aim for chicken weighing about 150-200g per tender. This helps ensure a juicy bite, cooked evenly without dryness. Freshness is key; nobody wants rubbery tenders!
Breading Components
A key step in getting that satisfying crunch is using the right breading. Use a mix of plain flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs for a crisp exterior. If you want to boost the flavor, try adding grated parmesan to the panko. About 50g of parmesan mixed with 100g panko can really improve your tenders.
Seasoning Essentials
Don’t skip the seasoning! Basic salt and pepper are essential. Add garlic powder, paprika, and some dried herbs for a burst of flavor. Get a good pinch of each—roughly 1 teaspoon per tender—and you’ll be on your way to making these chicken tenders unforgettable.
Choosing the Right Oil
When frying, opt for oils with high smoke points like canola or avocado oil. Keep about 500ml if frying. For air frying, just a light spritz will do. This choice can really affect your tender’s texture, so pay attention!
Mastering Prep and Technique
Everything in Its Place
Start with mise en place. Lay out all your ingredients before you get started. This saves time and keeps you organized. Slice your chicken into strips, about 2.5cm wide, and set up your breading stations—one for flour, another for the egg wash, and a third for the panko.
Whipping Up the Batter
In a bowl, whisk 2 eggs with a splash of milk. This egg wash is what’ll help your breading stick to the chicken. Try not to overbeat— just enough to combine. If it’s too runny, the breading won’t stick, and then we’ll end up with sad, naked chicken strips.
Coating the Chicken
Now the fun part—coating! Dip each chicken piece in flour, then the egg wash, and finally roll it in the panko mix. Press firmly as you cover each piece. This ensures every part of the chicken is coated, delivering maximum crunch.
Setting Up the Air Fryer
If you’re going for air fryer perfection, preheat it to 200°C (around 400°F). This sets up the best cooking environment for getting that crispy texture without all the oil. Arrange the tenders in a single layer for even cooking—no overlapping!
Cooking Steps for Delicious Tenders
Ideal Cooking Temperature
Aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for fully cooked chicken tenders. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken—it’s a smart investment for juicy results.
Air Frying Time
Cook your chicken tenders in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want that golden-brown color and a crispy coating. If they brown too quickly, lower the temperature slightly—better safe than sorry.
Tips for Crispiness
For the best crunch, lightly spray your tenders with oil just before cooking. It helps the panko crisp up and gives you that restaurant-quality finish. Don’t skip this step if you want them to be as crispy as Gordon serves.
Confirming Doneness
The only way to really know they’re done is to check the internal temperature. If it’s below 75°C, put them back in for a few more minutes. You can also cut one open—if the juices run clear, you’re good to go.
Fun Variations and Adjustments
American-Style Twists
Try adding BBQ seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Southern kick. Slathering them with ranch dressing beforehand? Who can say no?
International Flavors
Why not explore different flavors? Use Indian garam masala for an exotic touch or Mexican taco seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous. A world of flavor is just a spice jar away!
Substituting Ingredients
Got dietary restrictions? Swap out the chicken for tempeh or tofu for a plant-based option. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs to avoid gluten—just keep an eye on the crunch factor; some brands may vary.
Recommended Side Dishes
Serve up your chicken tenders with classic sides like homemade coleslaw, crispy fries, or a fresh garden salad. If you’re feeling fancy, whip up a dip like garlic aioli or honey mustard. You can never go wrong with variety!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Smooth Out Batter Issues
If your batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. Too runny? A bit more flour will even things out. It’s all about finding that right balance. Don’t hesitate to adjust!
Avoiding Overcrowding
When using the air fryer, avoid stacking too many tenders at once. This leads to uneven cooking and soggy textures. Batch cooking is your friend; take it slow and steady for the best outcome.
Preventing Dry Chicken
To avoid dry tenders, make sure you’re not overcooking. Stick to the recommended times and check internal temps. If they seem too dry, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk beforehand for extra moisture.
Perfecting Panko Toasting
For an even crunchier coating, toast your panko in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden before using. It adds depth, flavor, and that satisfying crunch you crave.
Advice on Chicken Tenders
Best Cuts of Chicken
While chicken breasts are the traditional choice, thighs bring more flavor and juiciness. Go for skinless and boneless for convenience. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cuts!
Mastering Air Frying
Make sure you’re not overloading your air fryer. A single layer is essential for the best results. If you need to, cook them in batches to achieve that perfectly crispy finish.
Exploring Dipping Sauce Options
Try out different dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, or even spicy sriracha mayo. The options are endless! Whether you love classic ketchup or want to try something new, there’s a sauce out there for everyone.
Keeping Tenders Crispy
To keep your tenders crispy after cooking, don’t stack them. Place them on a wire rack in a warm oven (around 90°C/200°F) until you’re ready to serve. Air circulation matters!
Step-by-Step Video: Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Extended …
FAQ – gordon ramsay chicken tenders
What cut of chicken is best for Gordon Ramsay chicken tenders?
Chicken tenderloins or thinly sliced chicken breast strips about 2/3-inch thick are ideal for even cooking and tenderness.
Can I air fry Gordon Ramsay’s chicken tenders recipe?
Yes, air frying at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes with light oil spray reproduces the recipe’s crispiness with less oil.
What dipping sauces go well with this dish?
Honey mustard, ranch, sriracha mayo, blue cheese dip, or classic BBQ sauces are all popular.
How do I keep the chicken tenders crispy?
Toast panko beforehand, avoid overcrowding when cooking, and serve immediately. Reheat gently in a toaster oven to retain crunch afterwards.
Before you start cooking…
You’ve just shaken hands with crispy heaven! The aroma of perfectly fried chicken tenders should linger in your kitchen like a culinary symphony. The golden crust gives way to juicy meat that dances on your palate. It feels incredible to nail this dish, transforming a simple meal into a feast fit for a king. So, roll with it; sauce it up, spice it down, and make these tenders your own masterpiece. Now it’s your turn — make it bold, make it yours.
