How to Make Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

SLOW COOKER CHICKEN TENDERS have become a favorite among families looking for easy and delicious meals that can be prepared in advance. Whether you're preparing dinner or planning a quick weeknight meal, these chicken tenders are simple to make and perfect for all ages.

The key to making the best slow cooker chicken tenders is selecting high-quality ingredients. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips that are around 1-inch thick. You'll also want to have your favorite dipping sauce on hand, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing. These sauces add a burst of flavor and make these chicken tenders even more enjoyable.

For the perfect balance of flavors in your slow cooker chicken tenders, start by preheating your slow cooker. Once it is warm, you will need to mix together all your ingredients. Begin with 1/2 cup of flour seasoned with salt and pepper; this ensures that the chicken has a crispy exterior when cooked. Add 2 large eggs beaten until they are well combined. Finally, add 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.

Now comes the fun part - assembling your slow cooker chicken tenders! Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture first to coat both sides evenly before dipping it into the egg wash. Lastly, roll the coated chicken strips through the breadcrumbs until they are well-coated on all sides. Repeat this process with all the pieces of chicken. Once all the chicken is coated, arrange them neatly inside your slow cooker.

Once you have arranged your chicken in the slow cooker, it's time to add a liquid base. Pour 1 can (about 28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes over the top of the chicken strips. You may also want to sprinkle some Italian seasoning or garlic powder over each piece for extra flavor. This simple combination creates a delicious marinade that adds moisture and flavor while cooking.

Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker model, but generally, it takes about 3-4 hours on low heat. If you prefer your chicken to be extra tender or if you are using a larger quantity of chicken strips, you might consider extending the cooking time by another hour. To check if your chicken is fully cooked, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of one tenders; it should read at least 165°F.

After your slow cooker chicken tenders have finished cooking, transfer them to a serving platter and let them rest for about 5 minutes. During this time, you can prepare your favorite dipping sauce. Pair these delicious chicken tenders with a side of vegetables or fries for an extra healthy and satisfying meal.

To make the slow cooker chicken tenders even more delightful, consider adding some extras such as shredded mozzarella cheese on top before serving. The melted cheese adds a gooey texture that complements the crispy exterior beautifully. Another option is to serve these with creamy coleslaw or potato salad for a fresh contrast of flavors and textures.

Slow cooker chicken tenders are versatile enough to be served in various ways, making them an excellent choice for parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings. They can also be prepared ahead of time, refrigerated overnight, then reheated in the slow cooker before serving. This way, you don't have to worry about last-minute preparations and can focus more on enjoying your company.

In conclusion, making slow cooker chicken tenders is an easy yet rewarding experience that any home cook can tackle with ease. Not only do they save time during busy weeknights, but they also provide a tasty meal for the entire family. With proper ingredient selection and minimal hands-on effort while setting up your slow cooker, you’ll have delicious results ready to serve in no time at all!

Now that you know how simple it is to make these chicken tenders, try them out yourself! Whether you're looking for something light or want a heartier meal, these tender strips of chicken will not disappoint. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring their delicious taste!