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Halloween Chicken Tenders

These Halloween chicken tenders are a gourmet finger food option that are quick to prepare and perfect for impressing your guests at a spooky soirée.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Finger Foods
Cuisine: American, Halloween
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders
  • 1 lb. chicken tenders
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko) For extra crunch
  • 1 tbsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp. paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp. beet juice Optional for blood-red dipping sauce
  • parsley or edible flowers For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Set up a breading station: In the first bowl, place flour; in the second, pour buttermilk; and in the third, combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Breading the Chicken
  1. Take a chicken tender, dip it in the flour, shake off the excess, then submerge it in the buttermilk, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for all tenders.
Baking
  1. Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Serving
  1. For a Halloween touch, mix some beet juice with your favorite dipping sauce to create a ‘bloody’ look.

Notes

Don’t worry if your sauce looks a little lumpy—it’s all part of the magic! You can prep the chicken earlier in the day and bake right before your guests arrive.