Get ready to revolutionize your dinner game with these mind-blowing Tomato Basil Cashew Chicken Tenders that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders with a crunchy cashew coating, bursting with fresh basil and tangy tomato sauce - this isn't just another boring chicken recipe. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a foodie seeking a fusion cuisine adventure, these chicken tenders are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Fusion
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a food processor, pulse the cashews until they become a fine, crumbly texture. Transfer to a shallow mixing bowl.
- Add breadcrumbs, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper to the cashew mixture. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform coating.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres properly.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the tomato sauce, ensuring it's lightly but evenly coated.
- Immediately roll the sauce-covered tender in the cashew-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve hot with extra tomato sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness
- Use a food processor to get the cashews to a fine, even texture for the perfect coating
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each tender space to cook evenly and get crispy
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F
- Let the tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in moisture and enhance flavor
- For extra flavor, try toasting the cashews lightly before grinding them
- Experiment with different herbs or add a pinch of garlic powder to the coating for variation
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 279kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
