Incorporating homemade frozen chicken tenders into your meal planning not only saves time and money but also allows you to enjoy a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Whether you’re preparing them for quick weeknight dinners, packing lunches, or hosting gatherings, knowing you have a stash of homemade goodness in the freezer brings peace of mind. So, the next time you’re tempted to reach for the freezer aisle, consider investing a little time to make your own—it’s a delicious decision you won’t regret!
Benefits of DIY Frozen Chicken Tenders
Crafting your own frozen chicken tenders offers a few advantages. Firstly, it’s more cost-effective than purchasing ready-made options from the grocery store. By buying chicken in bulk and using pantry staples for breading, you can create a large batch at a fraction of the cost per serving. Additionally, homemade tenders allow you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring they meet your dietary preferences and avoiding unnecessary additives or preservatives.
Cooking and Freezing Tips
Once you’ve breaded your chicken tenders, you have the option to either bake or fry them until golden brown and cooked through. To freeze, arrange the cooked tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for easy storage. When cravings strike, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Customize Tips
You can switch out the bran cereal for panko, bread crumbs, or something similar. I have also used other types of corn cereal in a pinch, and it works great! You can also add whatever spices you wish to the mix as well. Some ideas are dry ranch , BBQ or everything bagel seasoning.
The beauty of make-ahead chicken tenders lies in their flexibility. Make as many batches as you like, and enjoy the convenience whenever hunger strikes!
Now or Later Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- 3 plates
- 1 Cookie Sheet
- 1 Silicon Baking Sheet
- 1 Plastic bag if freezing
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Tenderloins
- 3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Egg beaten
- 1/3 cup Wheat Bran crushed
- 1 tbsp All Purpose Seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Mix eggs in a bowl and set aside.1 Egg
- Add flour to plate and set aside.3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- Mix together wheat bran (or bread crumbs) and seasonings.1/3 cup Wheat Bran, 1 tbsp All Purpose Seasoning
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip in egg and coat with crumbs.1 lb Chicken Tenderloins
- Lay a silicon baking sheet on a cookie sheet. Line the tenders up on the pan.
If freezing for later
- Place tray with chicken in freezer for at least 2 hours.
- Once frozen, remove from pan and place in large freezer bag. Squeeze out air and place in freezer.
- When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375℉ for 23-28 minutes or until tenders reach 165℉.
If baking right away
- Bake from fresh at 375℉ for 20-25 minutes or until tenders reach 165℉.
