If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe. This recipe transforms simple chicken tenders into a crispy, flavorful delight that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The tender chicken, paired with a seasoned egg wash and crisp Italian bread crumbs, creates a satisfying texture and taste that will keep you coming back for more. Trust me, once you make this, it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes to impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about this Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe is how it relies on a handful of everyday ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Each ingredient plays a key role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and crunch.
- 2 – 2.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders: The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender bites when prepared right.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Canola Oil for sautéing: Offers a neutral flavor and perfect heat tolerance for frying.
- 2 large whole eggs: Combine with mayo and milk to create the moist egg wash that helps the coating stick.
- 1 Tbsp mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the batter, making the tenders tender and flavorful.
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps to bind and thicken the egg mixture for better coating.
- 3 Tbsp milk: Lightens the batter and ensures each piece is evenly coated.
- 1/2 tsp Mrs. Dash seasoning: A savory mix that enhances the flavor without overpowering.
- 1/8 tsp salt: Adds just the right amount of seasoning to the batter.
- 2 cups Italian bread crumbs: Delivers a deliciously crispy and crunchy exterior.
- 3 Tbsp flour: For dredging, helping the egg mixture adhere perfectly to the chicken.
How to Make Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial because it helps the seasonings and coating stick better. Next, cover a large cutting board with cellophane to keep the workspace clean and place half of the chicken tenders evenly spaced on top.
Step 2: Pound the Chicken
Cover your chicken with another layer of cellophane and gently beat the chicken with the flat side of a meat mallet. Your goal is to get the thickness down to about 1/4 to 1/3 inch. Be careful not to hit too hard—just enough to tenderize without causing the chicken to fall apart.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Once pounded, remove the top layer of cellophane and sprinkle the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Seasoning the chicken at this stage ensures each bite is flavorful all the way through. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken tenders.
Step 4: Prepare the Batter
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, flour, milk, Mrs. Dash seasoning, and salt until smooth and combined. This rich mixture not only infuses moisture but also helps the bread crumbs adhere for that perfect crispy coating.
Step 5: Dredge and Coat
Spread the 3 tablespoons of flour on a plate. Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken in the flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the Italian bread crumbs until well covered on all sides. This triple-layer method is what gives the tenders their irresistible crunch.
Step 6: Cook Until Golden
Heat a generous amount of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated tenders and sauté for about 4 minutes per side or until they reach a gorgeous golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Avoid crowding the pan to maintain that perfect crispiness.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Letting them rest for a few minutes helps keep the crust crunchy and the juices locked inside.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
This is your moment to impress—bring those crispy, tender beauties to the table and watch them disappear faster than you can say Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe!
How to Serve Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings like fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice brighten the dish wonderfully. For a little extra flair, try serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of garlic aioli. These garnishes add fresh or creamy complementing flavors that elevate the treat.
Side Dishes
Crispy chicken tenders are famously paired with simple sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, creamy coleslaw or a warm baked macaroni and cheese provides a comforting balance to the crunchy chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe on a wooden board with colorful dipping sauces on the side—think honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or tangy barbecue. Or serve inside warm pita pockets with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tzatziki for a fun handheld meal twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick meals or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
Want to save them longer? Place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and still maintain their flavor and texture when reheated properly.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible—it can make the crust soggy. Instead, pop the tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a wire rack for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. This brings back that fresh-cooked crunch we all love from the Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe.
FAQs
What does “Otbivnaya” mean?
“Otbivnaya” refers to a style of meat preparation in Russian cuisine where the meat is pounded thin to tenderize it and then breaded and fried. It’s all about juicy, tender meat with a crispy coating, just like in this Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! You can slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips and pound them to the right thickness. Just be mindful to keep an eye on cooking time since breasts can dry out faster than tenders.
What if I don’t have Mrs. Dash seasoning?
No worries! You can substitute with a mild herb blend or simply use a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like oregano or thyme to replicate that seasoning’s effect in the batter.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Swap out the all-purpose flour and Italian bread crumbs for gluten-free alternatives available at most grocery stores. The process stays exactly the same and you’ll still end up with crispy, delicious tenders.
Is it possible to bake instead of frying?
Absolutely! Place the coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe enough for anyone who loves a great combination of tender meat and crunchy coating. It’s a recipe that’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to serve guests. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved dish that brings comfort and smiles at every meal.
Print
Otbivnaya Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Russian
Description
Otbivnaya, also known as Otbivni, are thinly pounded chicken tenders coated in a flavorful seasoned egg wash and Italian bread crumbs, then sautéed to a golden crisp. This recipe offers tender, juicy chicken with a deliciously crunchy exterior, perfect as a satisfying main dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 – 2.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Canola oil, for sautéing
Egg Wash
- 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
Breading
- 2 cups Italian bread crumbs
- 3 Tbsp flour
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat dry the chicken tenders with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cover a large cutting board with cellophane wrap.
- Pound the chicken: Arrange half of the chicken tenders evenly spaced on the cutting board and cover with another layer of cellophane. Using the flat side of a meat mallet, gently pound chicken to about 1/4″ to 1/3″ thickness, being careful not to tear the meat.
- Season the chicken: Remove the top layer of cellophane and lightly sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper. Repeat the pounding and seasoning with the remaining chicken tenders.
- Make the egg wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, mayonnaise, flour, milk, Mrs. Dash seasoning, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare breading station: Place the Italian bread crumbs and flour in separate shallow dishes for dredging.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken tender lightly in flour, then dip into the egg wash mixture, ensuring full coverage. Finally, coat with Italian bread crumbs, pressing the crumbs gently to adhere well.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken tenders in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and serve: Transfer cooked chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides or sauces.
Notes
- Be careful when pounding the chicken to avoid tearing—it should be thin but still intact.
- Mayonnaise in the egg wash adds moisture and helps the bread crumbs stick better.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin wrapped in plastic wrap if a mallet is unavailable.
- Cook chicken in batches to maintain proper oil temperature for a crispy coating.
- Canola oil is preferred for sautéing due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
