Chicken tenders and chicken strips are both popular items on restaurant menus and at home kitchens. They are both made from chicken breast meat and are often served as a snack or appetizer. However, there are some differences between the two that set them apart. In this article, we will compare chicken tenders and chicken strips, discuss their similarities and differences, and answer some frequently asked questions.
What are Chicken Tenders?
Chicken tenders, also known as chicken fingers or strips, are thin strips of chicken breast meat that are breaded and fried. They are usually long, thin and narrow, resembling the shape of a finger. Chicken tenders are often served with dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing.
What are Chicken Strips?
Chicken strips are also made from chicken breast meat but are cut into thicker strips than chicken tenders. They are usually wider and thicker than chicken tenders, often having a rectangular shape. Like chicken tenders, chicken strips are also breaded and fried.
Chicken Tenders Vs Chicken Strips – What’s the Difference?
The main difference between chicken tenders and chicken strips is in their size and shape. Tenders are usually long, thin, and narrow, while strips are wider and thicker. The breading and seasoning may also differ between the two, depending on the recipe.
Another difference is in the way they are prepared. Chicken tenders are often marinated in buttermilk or a seasoned egg mixture to tenderize the meat before being breaded and fried. Chicken strips, on the other hand, are often seasoned with spices and seasonings before being breaded and fried.
When it comes to nutritional content, chicken tenders and strips are similar in calorie and fat content. However, chicken tenders may contain slightly more protein due to their smaller size, and chicken strips may contain slightly more sodium due to their thicker breading.
Which is Healthier?
Both chicken tenders and chicken strips are high in protein and can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. However, since they are often fried and breaded, they can also be high in calories and fat.
To make a healthier choice, consider baking or grilling the chicken tenders or strips instead of frying them. You can also choose whole-grain or gluten-free breading options to increase the nutritional content.
FAQs
1. Are chicken tenders and chicken strips gluten-free?
It depends on the breading used. If the breading is made with wheat flour, it is not gluten-free. However, many restaurants and grocery stores now offer gluten-free breading options.
2. Can I make chicken tenders or strips without breading?
Yes, you can grill or bake chicken tenders or strips without breading for a healthier option. You can also season them with herbs and spices to add flavor.
3. What dipping sauces go well with chicken tenders and chicken strips?
Honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, and buffalo sauce are popular dipping sauce options for both chicken tenders and strips.
Conclusion
Chicken tenders and chicken strips are both tasty and popular appetizers that are made from chicken breast meat. Although they share some similarities, they differ in shape, size, and breading. They can both be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and prepared using healthier cooking methods. Remember to choose whole-grain or gluten-free breading options and pair with flavorful dipping sauces for a delicious and satisfying snack.