Chinatown Philadelphia isn't just about dumplings and egg rolls! This vibrant neighborhood also boasts a surprising number of spots serving up delicious chicken tenders. But with so many options, finding the best can feel overwhelming. This guide dives deep into twelve of Chinatown's top chicken tender contenders, helping you navigate the crispy, juicy landscape and find your perfect bite. We'll explore factors like breading, meat quality, sauces, and overall value to help you choose wisely.
Top 12 Chicken Tender Spots in Chinatown: A Deep Dive
This list isn't ranked in any particular order—each location offers a unique chicken tender experience. Consider your preferences (spicy, classic, saucy, etc.) when making your choice.
1. Golden Dragon: Known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, Golden Dragon surprisingly delivers excellent chicken tenders. Their breading is light and crispy, letting the juicy chicken shine. They offer a classic honey mustard and a surprisingly good spicy mayo.
2. Pho 75: While primarily a Vietnamese pho spot, Pho 75's chicken tenders are a hidden gem. The tenders are incredibly juicy and seasoned perfectly, and they offer a variety of dipping sauces, from sweet chili to sriracha mayo.
3. Kung Fu Tea: This popular bubble tea shop also offers chicken tenders as a side or snack. These are great for a quick and easy bite. Expect a standard breading, but the value and convenience are hard to beat.
4. Wok N' Roll: This fast-casual spot specializes in customizable noodle bowls and stir-fries, but their chicken tenders stand out for their generous size and flavorful seasoning. They offer several different dipping sauces to personalize your experience.
5. Dim Sum House: This classic dim sum restaurant serves unexpectedly good chicken tenders as part of their larger menu. The tenders are often served with a side of plum sauce, a delightful sweet and sour complement.
6. Four Seasons: Famous for its Peking duck, Four Seasons' chicken tenders are a tasty surprise. The tenders are crispy on the outside and incredibly tender on the inside. While not overly seasoned, the simple preparation highlights the quality of the chicken.
7. New Shanghai: This spot offers a unique twist on chicken tenders, often serving them as part of a larger combo meal. They incorporate various Asian-inspired flavors into their marinades and breading, making them exciting for adventurous eaters.
8. A Touch of Philly: While not strictly a Chinatown establishment, A Touch of Philly's Chinatown location offers a fantastic selection of chicken tenders. They're known for their creative sauce options, often featuring unique flavor combinations that elevate the classic tender experience.
9. Sang Kee Noodle: This bustling noodle house provides a satisfying chicken tender option as a side dish. The tenders are simply prepared, allowing the flavor of the chicken to shine.
10. City Ramen: A great spot for a hearty ramen bowl, City Ramen's chicken tenders are a solid side choice. The tenders are often crispier than many of the others on this list, offering a satisfying crunch.
11. Han Dynasty: While known for their spicy Sichuan cuisine, Han Dynasty’s chicken tenders offer a surprisingly milder option. Expect a subtly spiced, well-seasoned tender with a crispy coating.
12. Taiwan Cafe: This casual spot serves up delicious Taiwanese cuisine, and their chicken tenders are a perfect example of simple done right. They emphasize juicy, flavorful chicken with a light breading, showcasing the quality of the ingredients.
Finding Your Perfect Chinatown Chicken Tender
This guide provides a diverse selection of places to try. To find your personal favorite, consider these factors:
- Breading: Do you prefer a light, crispy breading or a thicker, more substantial one?
- Meat Quality: How important is tender, juicy chicken to you?
- Sauce Options: Do you want classic options or more creative, adventurous choices?
- Value: Are you looking for a quick, affordable bite or a more substantial meal?
Exploring Chinatown's chicken tender landscape is an adventure. So grab a friend, try a few spots from this list, and discover your new favorite place for these delicious treats! Remember to check each restaurant's hours and availability before you go. Happy eating!
