When you open your freezer and spot that familiar blue-and-yellow bag, you know dinner’s about to be easy. Perdue Chicken Tenders have become a go-to staple for families, meal preppers, and anyone who wants a quick, protein-packed bite without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a fan of their breaded, grilled, or gluten-free versions, there’s a reason Perdue remains one of America’s most trusted poultry brands.
This guide dives deep into everything you need to know from nutrition and cooking tips to taste tests, comparisons, and health insights to help you decide if Perdue Chicken Tenders are really worth it.
What Are Perdue Chicken Tenders?
Perdue Chicken Tenders are made from all-white meat chicken breasts not the mixed parts often found in cheaper tenders. They’re pre-cut, seasoned, and partially cooked for convenience, making them easy to prepare in minutes.
Here are some of their popular varieties:
- Perdue Breaded Chicken Breast Tenders – lightly seasoned and coated in crispy breading.
- Perdue Simply Smart Organics Chicken Tenders – made from organic chicken and cleaner ingredients.
- Perdue Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders – perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- Perdue Grilled Chicken Breast Strips – unbreaded, grilled, and packed with lean protein.
Each option offers something unique, but they all share one common trait high-quality chicken raised with no antibiotics ever.
The Perdue Brand Promise
Perdue Farms has been a household name for over a century. The brand’s commitment to “No Antibiotics Ever” has set it apart in an industry where shortcuts are common. Perdue chickens are raised on family farms, fed vegetarian diets, and handled humanely.
This attention to animal welfare and transparency in farming helps Perdue maintain a loyal customer base. Compared to competitors like Tyson or store-brand chicken tenders, Perdue’s products consistently rank higher in both flavor and trust.
Perdue Chicken Tenders Nutrition Facts
If you’re watching what you eat, it’s important to understand what’s inside each crispy bite. Here’s a breakdown of the Perdue Breaded Chicken Breast Tenders (3-piece serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Sodium | 440mg |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
Are Perdue Chicken Tenders Healthy?
That depends on your diet goals. While they’re not a “superfood,” Perdue tenders offer a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fat ideal for busy families or post-workout meals.
Pros:
- Made from real white meat.
- No antibiotics ever.
- Moderate calorie content.
- Great protein source.
Cons:
- Contains breading and sodium.
- May include preservatives (depending on variety).
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Perdue Simply Smart Organics or Perdue Grilled Chicken Strips, which have fewer calories and less sodium.
Cooking Perdue Chicken Tenders the Right Way
One of the best things about Perdue Chicken Tenders is their convenience. You can prepare them directly from frozen in under 20 minutes. Here’s how:
Oven-Baked Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Place tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15–17 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer Method
- Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place tenders in the basket without overcrowding.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Microwave (Quickest)
- Place 2–3 tenders on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat for 1–2 minutes on high.
- Let rest for 1 minute before serving.
For safety, always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Best Dipping Sauces and Pairings
Perdue tenders taste amazing on their own, but the right sauce takes them to another level. Try these favorites:
- Honey mustard – the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
- Buffalo sauce – adds a spicy kick.
- Garlic aioli – creamy and flavorful.
- Classic BBQ sauce – smoky and rich.
Pair your tenders with sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Real Taste Test – Perdue vs. Competitors
To see how Perdue Chicken Tenders stack up, we compared them to other major brands.
| Brand | Taste | Texture | Nutrition | Price | |
| Perdue | Juicy, flavorful | Crispy | Balanced | $$ | |
| Tyson | Mild, slightly oily | Crunchy | Higher sodium | $$ | |
| Applegate | Organic and clean | Softer | Low sodium | $$$ | |
| Store Brand | Bland flavor | Uneven texture | Varies | $ |
In blind taste tests, Perdue’s tenders scored high for flavor and consistency. Customers often describe them as “crispy outside, juicy inside,” a combination that’s hard to beat in the frozen aisle.
Where to Buy Perdue Chicken Tenders
You can find Perdue Chicken Tenders almost anywhere, including:
- Walmart
- Target
- Costco
- Kroger
- Amazon Fresh
- PerdueFarms.com (direct purchase and subscription options)
Pro Tip: Look for coupons on Perdue’s website or sign up for their newsletter to get discounts and free shipping on bulk orders.
How to Store and Reheat Perdue Chicken Tenders
Proper storage keeps your tenders tasting their best:
- Freezer storage: Keep below 0°F (-18°C); good for up to 6 months.
- Fridge storage (after cooking): Consume within 3–4 days.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: 400°F for 10 minutes – restores crispiness.
- Air Fryer: 350°F for 6–8 minutes – best texture.
- Avoid microwaving if possible; it can make them soggy.
Alternatives to Perdue Chicken Tenders
If you want to try other options, here are a few close competitors:
| Brand | Key Feature |
| Applegate Naturals | Organic, minimal ingredients |
| Bell & Evans | Air-chilled, antibiotic-free |
| Tyson Naturals | Affordable, widely available |
| Gardein (Vegan) | Plant-based, non-GMO |
Homemade tenders are also a great alternative. Use boneless chicken breasts, panko crumbs, and a mix of spices for a healthier, personalized version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are Perdue chicken fully cooked?
Yes, most frozen varieties are fully cooked. Just heat them to 165°F for safety. - Are chicken tenders gluten-free?
Only the Perdue Gluten-Free line is. Regular ones contain wheat flour in the breading. - How long can I store them?
Up to 6 months in the freezer if unopened and kept below 0°F. - Is It good for meal prep?
Absolutely. They’re high in protein and easy to portion for lunches. - Can you air fry chicken from frozen?
Yes. No need to thaw just cook them for 8–10 minutes at 375°F.
Final Thoughts, Are Perdue Chicken Tenders Worth Buying?
If you want crispy, flavorful, and high-quality frozen chicken is hard to beat. They offer a clean ingredient list, great taste, and multiple options for every diet from organic to gluten-free.
In short, It is a convenient, reliable, and tasty choice for anyone who wants a quick meal without compromising on quality. Whether you bake them, air fry them, or toss them into a wrap, they’ll deliver consistent results every time.