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Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce
Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried dill. Stir until well combined.
Season and Chill: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tartar sauce while you prepare the chicken fingers.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Fingers
Set Up Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and then coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place the coated chicken tenders on a plate or tray.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Fingers
For Air Frying:
Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Arrange Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. You may need to cook them in batches.
Air Fry: Cook the chicken fingers for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
For Baking:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Bake Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve
Plate the Chicken Fingers: Once cooked, remove the chicken fingers from the air fryer or oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
Serve with Tartar Sauce: Serve the crispy chicken fingers with the homemade tartar sauce for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
For Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy coating, consider double-dipping the chicken in the egg mixture and breadcrumbs.
Make Ahead: You can prepare and bread the chicken fingers ahead of time. Refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap, then cook as directed when ready to serve.
These Crispy Chicken Fingers paired with homemade tartar sauce are the ultimate comfort food combo. Whether for a casual family dinner or a party, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful chicken fingers with a tangy dip that brings everything together!
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