Here's Why I Never Skip the Chicken Tenders on a Disney Cruise

Some people chase lobster tails. I chase Disney Cruise Line's chicken tenders. As a Disney food expert that has eaten at nearly every single restaurant across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and onboard many Disney Cruise Line ships, I feel like I can confidently tell you where you can find good food. So when I tell you that I NEVER skip the chicken tenders on a Disney Cruise, you need to believe me.

Chicken Tenders Are the Unexpected MVP of Disney Cruise Dining

Even if you've never sailed with Disney Cruise Line and tried them for yourself, I'm willing to bet that someone in your life has raved about these chicken tenders. If you're scrolling cruise content on social media I guarantee you'll find a rich cache of tasty tender memes. Head to Reddit or other online forums, and you will find post after post talking about how good the tenders are, or how to make a dupe recipe at home.

The chicken tenders onboard Disney's cruise ships are a phenomenon, and, in my opinion, deserving of all their delicious praise. The tenders are so iconic to the cruise experience that Disney wrote a joke and had Paul Rudd (yes, Ant Man from the Marvel Cinematic Universe) give them a shout-out during the Worlds of Marvel dining experience onboard the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure.

Now I can already hear the uninitiated - "calm down," "they're just chicken tenders," "we have chicken tenders at home" - and to you I simply say Disney Cruise Line chicken tenders are different, they are special, they are worth the hype.

What Makes Disney Cruise Line's Chicken Tenders Stand Out

So, what makes a Disney Cruise Line tender so deliciously memorable? Well, pixie dust for one. There's no denying that free food tastes better than food you paid for.

Yes, onboard Disney cruise ship it's not so much free as "included in your cruise fare," but when you're on vacation and you can just walk up to the pool deck quick serve and walk away with all the tenders your heart desires, it feels free. And if that isn't a little sprinkle of pixie dust on your vacation, then I don't know what is.

You Can Eat Chicken Tenders Any Time of Day on a Disney Cruise

The next reason I love a Disney Cruise Line chicken tender? They're available 24 hrs a day.

Between the buffet, pool deck grab-and-go, and 24-hour room service onboard Disney cruises, you can always get chicken tenders. Was your little one being fussy at dinner and not eating anything from the menu? Put away your emergency Goldfish crackers; room service chicken fingers will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters (did I mention that even with room service, they're free?). Feeling like the 999th ghost after your visit to the Haunted Mansion Parlor? Swing by the pool deck for a little late night plate of chicken tenders and fries, and you're sure to leave with a ghoulish grin on your face.

Want to indulge just a little while enjoying your responsibly chosen fresh salad from the buffet? A couple of tenders on the side of a crisp green salad is a great lunch on a sea day. Looking to really plus your movie experience onboard the ship? Skip the popcorn and get yourself a plate of tenders and fries to go. Watching a movie on land with mere popcorn will never live up to this cruise combo.

These Chicken Tenders Really Do Taste Different

But the most important reason to love Disney Cruise Line's chicken tenders? They're simply the tastiest ones I've ever had.

The Disney culinary team has clearly put in the work to refine this recipe. The ratio of breading to chicken is just right, the crunch factor is perfect, the seasoning is spot on, and (most importantly) the preparation is down to such a science that these tenders are always as good as the last time you had them.

I've never gotten a cold batch or a disappointing plate of Disney Cruise Line chicken tenders. They are always golden brown, piping hot, and they always hit the spot.

So, if you’re ready to try the best chicken tenders, why not consider a Disney Cruise for your next family vacation? It’s the perfect way to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. If you’re interested in learning more or need help planning and booking your dream Disney Cruise, feel free to reach out to All About the Magic Travel. We’d be thrilled to assist you in finding the perfect itinerary tailored to your family’s needs, so you can try these delicious chicken tenders yourself!

Melisa Barron, All About the Magic Travel