For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Assembly
- 4 slices Texas toast
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Equipment Needed
Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment:
- Shallow dishes or bowls for breading
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking sheet with a wire rack (optional, for keeping tenders crispy)
- Small saucepan (for the sauce)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- Bread the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders in batches, cooking until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. Make the Sauce
- Heat the Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the Texas Toast
- Toast the Bread: While the chicken and sauce are cooking, toast the Texas toast according to the package instructions, or until golden brown and crispy. If you prefer, you can toast it in the oven or on a griddle for a more even crisp.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Layer the Toast and Chicken: Place each slice of Texas toast on a baking sheet or serving plate. Top each slice with a few chicken tenders.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a generous amount of sauce over the chicken tenders. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Preheat your broiler. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove from the broiler and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders on Texas Toast
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the tenders will absorb more oil and become greasy.
- Breading Tips: For an extra-crispy coating, double-coat the chicken tenders by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps.
- Cheese Choice: Use high-quality shredded mozzarella for the best melting results. You can also experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce to the breading mixture or sauce for a spicier kick.
- Vegetable Additions: Top the chicken tenders with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Different Sauces: Swap the marinara sauce for BBQ sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different twist.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken tenders and Texas toast on a baking sheet and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the toast soggy.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken tenders on Texas toast are hearty and satisfying on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. For a drink pairing, consider a refreshing iced tea or a cold beer.
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