Baked “Firecracker” Chicken Tenders

A sweet & spicy shareable finger food. Perfect for an appetizer or main dish – Great for entertaining guests where there is a spread of food to graze on. Serve with Ranch dressing for dipping!

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 – 2 lbs Chicken Tenderloins
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • ⅓ cup flour

Sauce

  • ⅓ cup Frank’s hot sauce – (this brand really makes the sauce!)
  • ⅔ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon water

How To:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F and grease a large baking sheet with nonstick spray. Add flour and chicken strips to a large zip-lock bag, seal, and shake to coat chicken.
  2. Place panko in a bowl. In a second bowl whisk together eggs and water. Dip flour-coated chicken pieces into the egg mixture to coat, then toss in the panko crumbs (make sure to coat well) and place on prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining chicken.
  3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes until golden-brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
  4. While chicken tenders are baking, prepare the sauce….In a medium sauce pan combine all sauce ingredients. Stir over medium heat for about 5 minutes, then reduce to low and allow to simmer until ready to use.
  5. When chicken is finished cooking, use tongs to toss chicken tenders in the sauce. Serve warm with ranch dressing, if desired.