Unlocking KFC Flavor at Home: Creative Recipes with New Original Recipe Tenders Box
KFC’s New Original Recipe Tenders Box is a game-changer for anyone who loves the iconic flavor of Kentucky Fried Chicken but wants the versatility to create their own meals. This box, packed with crispy, juicy tenders coated in that secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, is a blank canvas for culinary exploration. Forget just dipping them in sauce (though that’s certainly a valid option!). We’re diving deep into the possibilities, offering creative recipes that transform these tenders into exciting and satisfying meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or a satisfying lunch, these recipes using the KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box will deliver.
## Why the KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box is a Culinary Dream
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s appreciate why this box is so fantastic.
* **The Flavor:** That signature Original Recipe is undeniably delicious. It’s the perfect balance of savory, peppery, and slightly sweet, making it incredibly versatile.
* **The Convenience:** No cooking required! The tenders are pre-cooked and ready to go, saving you time and effort.
* **The Texture:** The crispy coating and juicy interior offer a satisfying contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
* **The Portability:** Perfect for picnics, road trips, or packing in lunches.
* **The Affordability:** The box is generally a great value, providing a good amount of protein for the price.
## Recipe 1: KFC Tenders Ranch BLT Salad
This salad combines the crispy goodness of KFC tenders with the freshness of a classic BLT, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1 avocado, diced
* 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
* Optional: croutons, shredded cheddar cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Tenders:** If the tenders are cold, you can warm them up in a few different ways:
* **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Air Fryer:** Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Microwave:** While not ideal for maintaining crispiness, you can microwave the tenders for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them loosely with a paper towel.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, bacon, red onion, and avocado.
3. **Add the Tenders:** Cut the warm KFC tenders into bite-sized pieces and add them to the salad.
4. **Dress the Salad:** Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** If desired, garnish with croutons and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad or use a spicy ranch dressing for an extra kick.
* **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to add other vegetables, such as cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots.
* **Make it a Wrap:** Instead of a salad, wrap the ingredients in a large tortilla for a portable lunch or snack.
* **Homemade Ranch:** For a healthier option, make your own ranch dressing using Greek yogurt, buttermilk, herbs, and spices.
## Recipe 2: KFC Tenders Buffalo Chicken Sliders
These sliders are a fun and flavorful twist on classic buffalo chicken wings. The crispy KFC tenders are tossed in buffalo sauce and served on mini buns with creamy coleslaw and blue cheese dressing. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a casual weeknight meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* 6 slider buns
* 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/4 cup blue cheese dressing (store-bought or homemade)
* Optional: celery sticks, carrot sticks
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using one of the methods described in the previous recipe.
2. **Toss in Buffalo Sauce:** Cut the warm KFC tenders into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Pour the buffalo wing sauce over the tenders and toss to coat evenly.
3. **Assemble the Sliders:** Slice the slider buns in half. Spread a spoonful of coleslaw on the bottom half of each bun.
4. **Add the Buffalo Chicken:** Top the coleslaw with the buffalo chicken tenders.
5. **Drizzle with Blue Cheese Dressing:** Drizzle the blue cheese dressing over the buffalo chicken.
6. **Top with the Bun:** Place the top half of the bun on each slider.
7. **Serve:** Serve the sliders immediately, with celery sticks and carrot sticks on the side, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Control the Heat:** Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to control the spiciness of the sliders. For a milder flavor, use a butter-based buffalo sauce.
* **Different Cheese:** If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try using ranch dressing, provolone, or pepper jack cheese instead.
* **Add Crunch:** Top the sliders with crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips for added texture.
* **Make it a Wrap:** Skip the buns and wrap the ingredients in a large tortilla for a buffalo chicken wrap.
## Recipe 3: KFC Tenders Quesadillas with Chipotle Crema
These quesadillas are a delicious and easy way to use up leftover KFC tenders. The crispy tenders are combined with cheese, black beans, and corn, then grilled until golden brown and served with a smoky chipotle crema. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 4 large flour tortillas
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
**For the Chipotle Crema:**
* 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers (or 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder)
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chipotle Crema:** In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), adobo sauce (or chipotle powder), lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using one of the methods described in the first recipe.
3. **Assemble the Quesadillas:** Cut the warm KFC tenders into bite-sized pieces. Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface. Sprinkle half of each tortilla with cheese, black beans, corn, red onion, and the chopped KFC tenders. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
4. **Cook the Quesadillas:** Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the skillet with cooking spray or butter. Place the quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Flip carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
5. **Serve:** Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately with the chipotle crema for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Spice:** Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the quesadillas for extra heat.
* **Different Cheese:** Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Oaxaca, or queso fresco.
* **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the KFC tenders and add more beans and vegetables for a vegetarian quesadilla.
## Recipe 4: KFC Tenders Fried Rice
This fried rice recipe is a quick and easy way to use up leftover KFC tenders and transform them into a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a great alternative to ordering takeout and allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
* 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh), such as peas, carrots, and corn
* 1/2 cup diced onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, sriracha
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using one of the methods described in the first recipe. Cut the warm KFC tenders into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Stir-Fry the Vegetables:** Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. **Cook the Egg:** Push the vegetables to one side of the wok or skillet. Pour the beaten egg into the empty space and cook, stirring constantly, until scrambled.
4. **Add the Rice and Tenders:** Add the cooked rice and KFC tenders to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
5. **Season:** Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir-fry until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. **Serve:** Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately with sriracha for extra heat.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Vegetables:** Feel free to use other vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
* **Add Protein:** Add other sources of protein, such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Use Brown Rice:** For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice.
## Recipe 5: KFC Tenders Pizza
This recipe will show you how to create pizza using the KFC tenders as a topping. This is a great and unexpected treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade)
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Optional toppings: bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. **Prepare Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using the air fryer or oven method described earlier. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.
3. **Assemble the Pizza:** Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border.
4. **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. **Add Toppings:** Distribute the KFC tender pieces evenly over the cheese. Add any additional toppings you desire (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, etc.).
6. **Bake:** Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it up:** Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy pizza sauce.
* **Different Cheese:** Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone, or add some parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
* **BBQ Chicken Pizza Style:** Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce and add red onions and cilantro for a BBQ chicken pizza twist.
* **Homemade Crust:** If you have the time, try making your own pizza dough for a truly homemade experience.
## Recipe 6: KFC Tenders Mac and Cheese Bowl
Transform your mac and cheese into a complete meal with this KFC tenders mac and cheese bowl. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 2 cups prepared mac and cheese (boxed or homemade)
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
* Optional: green onions, BBQ sauce, hot sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using your preferred method. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Assemble the Bowl:** In a bowl, layer mac and cheese, followed by the cut-up KFC tenders.
3. **Top with Cheese and Bacon:** Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top.
4. **Microwave (Optional):** If you want the cheese to be extra melty, microwave the bowl for 30 seconds.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with green onions and a drizzle of BBQ sauce or hot sauce, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Gourmet Mac and Cheese:** Use a high-quality mac and cheese recipe or boxed version for an elevated experience.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add some jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mac and cheese for a spicy kick.
* **Breadcrumbs:** Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top before microwaving for a crispy topping.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
## Recipe 7: KFC Tenders Breakfast Sandwich
Who says you can’t have fried chicken for breakfast? This breakfast sandwich features KFC tenders, eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast toppings, all nestled between two slices of toast or a biscuit.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (you’ll only need 1-2 tenders per sandwich)
* 2 slices of bread or 1 biscuit, split
* 1 egg
* 1 slice of cheese (cheddar, American, or pepper jack)
* Optional: bacon, sausage, avocado, tomato, lettuce, mayonnaise, hot sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using your preferred method.
2. **Cook the Egg:** Cook the egg to your liking (fried, scrambled, or poached). Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Toast the Bread or Prepare Biscuit:** Toast the bread or warm the biscuit.
4. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Layer the cheese, egg, and KFC tender(s) on the bottom slice of bread or biscuit. Add any additional toppings you desire (bacon, sausage, avocado, tomato, lettuce, mayonnaise, hot sauce).
5. **Top and Serve:** Top with the other slice of bread or biscuit and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Mayo:** Mix mayonnaise with a dash of hot sauce or sriracha for a flavorful spread.
* **Add a Hash Brown:** Add a hash brown patty for extra heartiness.
* **Use a Croissant:** Substitute the bread or biscuit with a croissant for a richer flavor.
* **Make it a Wrap:** Use a tortilla instead of bread or a biscuit for a breakfast wrap.
## Recipe 8: KFC Tenders Skewers with Peanut Sauce
These skewers are a fun and flavorful appetizer or snack. The KFC tenders are threaded onto skewers with vegetables and drizzled with a creamy peanut sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box (about 4-5 tenders)
* 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1/2 cup peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* Skewers
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Tenders:** Warm up the KFC tenders using your preferred method. Cut them into 1-inch pieces.
2. **Assemble the Skewers:** Thread the KFC tender pieces, bell peppers, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients.
3. **Grill or Bake (Optional):** For extra flavor, you can grill the skewers over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. **Drizzle with Peanut Sauce:** Drizzle the peanut sauce over the skewers.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Other Vegetables:** Add other vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or pineapple.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce.
* **Different Sauce:** Use a different sauce such as teriyaki sauce or sweet chili sauce.
* **Marinate:** Marinate the chicken and vegetables in the peanut sauce for at least 30 minutes before assembling the skewers for enhanced flavor.
## Conclusion: The KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box: Your Culinary Companion
The KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box is more than just a quick meal; it’s a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and satisfying dishes. With a little creativity, you can transform these crispy tenders into gourmet salads, flavorful sliders, cheesy quesadillas, hearty fried rice, and much more. So, the next time you pick up a KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box, don’t just reach for the dipping sauce. Instead, unleash your inner chef and explore the endless possibilities that this culinary gem has to offer. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive party snacks, the KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box is your secret weapon for delicious and convenient meals. Enjoy! These recipes show the possibilities and demonstrate the KFC tenders are an important versatile base ingredient. They can add unique KFC flavor and texture to many different dishes. Enjoy experimenting, creating new dishes and eating. Bon appétit! The affordability and convenience and the flavor make the KFC New Original Recipe Tenders Box a winner.