How to Make Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

Slow cooker chicken tenders have become a popular dish in many households as they provide an easy and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal for the family. If you're looking for a recipe that is simple, healthy, and requires minimal prep time, then this slow cooker chicken tender recipe is perfect for you! The keyword here is "slow cooker chicken tenders."

Ingredients required are:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup of paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups of buttermilk or milk
• Cooking oil spray (for breading the chicken)
• Parchment paper for baking (optional, if you plan to bake the tenders after cooking them in the slow cooker)
• Sweet and savory sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch strips. Arrange the chicken pieces on a large plate.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This mixture will be used for breading the chicken strips before placing them in the slow cooker.
3. While stirring constantly, slowly pour buttermilk or milk into the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter has a smooth consistency without any lumps remaining. The batter should resemble pancake batter. Set aside half of this mixture to coat the chicken.
4. Bread the chicken pieces: dip each piece into the flour mixture and then place it back onto the plate. This ensures that there is an even coating of the dry ingredients over all sides of the chicken. Next, dip each piece again into the buttermilk or milk batter. Again, ensure every part of the chicken gets a good coat.
5. After dipping both sides of the chicken in the flour and then the buttermilk mixture, place it back on your plate with other pieces. Once done coating all the pieces, transfer them to the slow cooker. If you prefer to bake these tenders after cooking in the slow cooker, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the coated chicken strips onto this lined baking tray.
6. Secure the lid of the slow cooker and set it to cook on high heat for 6 to 7 hours or low heat for around 8-9 hours. During the cooking process, the tenders will be fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Once done, remove them from the slow cooker and place them onto a wire rack set on top of another baking sheet. Allow the chicken strips to cool off for at least 10-12 minutes before serving.

Optional steps after cooking in the slow cooker:

• Bake the cooked tenders in an oven preheated to 350°F (176°C) for about 5-8 minutes. This will allow you to crisp up the breading slightly, making them even more delicious.
• While baking, prepare your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard or sweet and savory BBQ sauce. Serve this alongside the chicken tenders so everyone can enjoy their preferred flavor profile.

Serving suggestions:

Slow cooker chicken tenders are great for casual dinners but also work well in meal prep. They pair well with various sides including coleslaw, mashed potatoes, and steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. You can also serve them over a bed of rice or pasta for added texture.

Cooking time: 6 to 7 hours on high heat; 8-9 hours on low heat

Number of servings: About 4 to 6 servings depending on portion size preferences