Otbivnaya (Otbivni) Chicken Tenders

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the crispy, tender goodness of Otbivnaya (Otbivni) Chicken Tenders. This classic recipe, rooted in Eastern European cuisine, offers a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these chicken tenders are sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the world of Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders and learn how to make them effortlessly at home!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders have a unique charm that transcends cultural boundaries. What sets them apart is the method of preparation that ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. The combination of a light, crispy coating paired with succulent chicken makes these tenders a versatile dish. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, toss them into a salad, or enjoy them alongside a side of roasted vegetables. Whatever your choice, Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders will undoubtedly become a staple in your household.

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these delectable chicken tenders, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 2 – 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Canola oil for sautéing
• 2 large whole eggs
• 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 Tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp Mrs. Dash seasoning
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 2 cups Italian bread crumbs
• 3 Tbsp flour

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Large mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
• Whisk – to beat the eggs and mix the wet ingredients.
• Shallow dish – for the bread crumbs.
• Frying pan – for sautéing the chicken tenders.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – to flatten the chicken if needed.
• Spatula – for flipping the tenders.
• Paper towels – for draining excess oil.

Otbivnaya (Otbivni) Chicken Tenders, Made Easy

Making Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. If desired, use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken tenders with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Create the Breading Station

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, all-purpose flour, milk, Mrs. Dash seasoning, and salt until smooth. In a separate shallow dish, place the Italian bread crumbs and the 3 tablespoons of flour, mixing them well.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it thoroughly in the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Repeat this process until all chicken tenders are coated.

Step 5: Sauté the Chicken

In a large frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of canola oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the pan. Sauté in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 6: Cook Until Golden

Cook the chicken tenders for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a tender; it should be opaque and juices should run clear.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce, or enjoy them on their own!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to customize your Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders, consider these easy swaps:

• Mayonnaise – Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Italian bread crumbs – Use panko bread crumbs for extra crunch.
• Canola oil – Olive oil works well for sautéing, adding a different flavor profile.
• Mrs. Dash seasoning – Any all-purpose seasoning blend can be used if you prefer different flavors.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcrowding the pan – This can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy tenders instead of crispy ones.
• Not letting the oil heat up properly – If the oil isn’t hot enough, the breading can absorb too much oil, making the tenders greasy.
• Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season the chicken well; it makes all the difference in flavor.
• Using too large of a chicken tender – If the tenders are too thick, they may not cook through by the time the breading is golden. Flattening them ensures even cooking.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders can be a fantastic make-ahead meal. Here are some tips for freezing:

• Before frying, bread the chicken tenders and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• To cook from frozen, simply fry them for a few additional minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Ask the Chef

Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Absolutely! For a healthier version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken tenders on a lined baking sheet, and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

What can I serve with Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or a classic coleslaw. They also go great with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just cut them into strips to match the size of tenders, and follow the same breading and cooking instructions.

You Might Also Like

• Chicken Parmesan
• Garlic Butter Shrimp
• Spicy Chicken Wings
• Crispy Tofu Sticks

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring Otbivnaya (Otbivni) Chicken Tenders to life in your kitchen. The combination of crispy breading and juicy chicken will have everyone coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds! Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delightful results. Happy cooking!