Crispy Chicken Tenders with Fries & Sweet Chili Sauce

### **Instructions**

#### 1. **Prepare the Fries:**
– Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin strips (fries). Try to make them as uniform in size as possible for even cooking.
– Place the fries in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasoning you like (garlic powder, paprika, etc.).
– Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.

#### 2. **Prepare the Chicken Tenders:**
– While the fries are baking, set up your breading station for the chicken tenders. In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
– In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
– In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs (panko works best for a crunchy texture).
– Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat it well with the breadcrumbs. Press down slightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.

#### 3. **Fry the Chicken Tenders:**
– Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot, but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it browns within a few seconds, the oil is ready.
– Fry the chicken tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
– Once the tenders are done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

#### 4. **Make the Sweet Chili Sauce:**
– While the chicken tenders are frying, prepare the sweet chili sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice (if using), and sriracha or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
– Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes to heat through and slightly thicken. Remove from the heat and set aside.

#### 5. **Assemble the Plate:**
– Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble! Arrange the crispy chicken tenders and golden fries on a plate.
– Drizzle or serve the sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. You can also drizzle the sauce over the tenders for added flavor.

### **Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders with Fries & Sweet Chili Sauce**
– **Double Breading**: For extra crunch, you can double bread your chicken tenders. After dipping the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs, dip them again in the egg and breadcrumbs for a thicker coating.
– **Frying Tips**: Be sure the oil stays at a consistent temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks; if it’s too cool, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
– **Baking the Chicken**: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– **Making Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce**: If you’d like to make your own sweet chili sauce, combine 1/2 cup rice vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon chili flakes. Simmer over low heat until thickened, and adjust the sweetness or spiciness to your liking.

### **Why You’ll Love Crispy Chicken Tenders with Fries & Sweet Chili Sauce**

This dish hits all the right notes: the chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the fries are golden and perfectly seasoned, and the sweet chili sauce provides the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. It’s a combination that’s both comforting and exciting, making it perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or even a fun weekend treat.

The beauty of this meal is in its versatility. You can easily customize it by experimenting with different dipping sauces, seasonings for the fries, or even adding a side of coleslaw or veggies for a complete meal. The sweet chili sauce adds a unique flavor twist that makes this classic comfort food feel fresh and exciting.

### **Conclusion**

**Crispy Chicken Tenders with Fries & Sweet Chili Sauce** is the perfect recipe when you’re craving something indulgent and delicious. With perfectly fried chicken, crispy fries, and a sweet yet spicy dipping sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and experience the ultimate comfort food, done right!