BEDMINSTER, NJ. — Applegate, a subsidiary of Hormel Foods, announced it would make two additional products available under its frozen chicken category, the Applegate Naturals Lightly Breaded Chicken Tenders and Lightly Breaded Popcorn Chicken.

“Applegate’s Lightly Breaded product expansion fills American’s hunger for more delicious, easy-to-make protein options available right from their freezer,” said Joseph O’Connor, president of Applegate. “With Lightly Breaded, we’ve dialed back on the breading for extra crispiness and continue to deliver the nutritious and high-quality chicken Applegate is known for. We know it’ll be a hit with chicken tenders and popcorn chicken fans — including those who are concerned with or sensitive to gluten!”

The company said the Lightly Breaded line uses a gluten-free rice flour coating with 12-14 grams of protein. The items also come in resealable family size bags to help with convenience for consumers.

Applegate expects to start selling the new chicken tenders and popcorn chicken at select retailers in May, including Whole Foods, Stop & Shop and Demoulas.

Applegate confirmed last month that all its beef hot dogs would be verified from regenerative farms by the end of 2025.

Founded in 1987, Applegate produces hot dogs, bacon, sausages, deli meats, cheese and frozen products with natural and organic claims. In 2015, Applegate became a stand-alone subsidiary of Hormel Foods.