Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

Are you in the mood for a delicious and crispy snack that will leave you wanting more? Look no further than this mouthwatering Fried Chicken Tenders recipe! With its perfectly seasoned coating and tender, juicy meat, these golden-brown chicken tenders are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a main course, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron and get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills!

Ingredients

To make delicious fried chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken tenders

Chicken tenders are the star of this dish. They are tender, boneless pieces of chicken breast that are perfect for snacking or as a main course.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a must-have ingredient for marinating the chicken. It helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with a creamy tangy flavor.

Flour

Flour is used to create the crispy coating on the chicken tenders. You can use all-purpose flour or a combination of all-purpose and cornstarch for an extra crispy texture.

Salt

Salt enhances the overall flavor of the chicken tenders. Make sure to season both the marinade and the coating to achieve a well-balanced taste.

Pepper

Black pepper adds a gentle heat and aromatic flavor to the chicken tenders. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Garlic powder

Garlic powder gives the chicken tenders a savory and fragrant kick. It pairs well with the other ingredients to create a delicious flavor profile.

Paprika

Paprika adds a subtle smoky taste and a vibrant red color to the chicken tenders. Choose sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference.

Oil for frying

You will need vegetable oil or any high-heat oil for frying the chicken tenders. Make sure to use enough oil to fully submerge the tenders for even frying.

Preparation

Marinating the chicken

Start by marinating the chicken tenders to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Place the chicken in a bowl or a ziplock bag and pour buttermilk over it, ensuring all the pieces are fully coated. Add salt, garlic powder, and paprika to the buttermilk marinade. Mix well to distribute the seasoning evenly. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it will absorb.

Coating the chicken

When you’re ready to fry the chicken tenders, it’s time to coat them in a delicious crispy crust. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until all the spices are evenly incorporated into the flour. Take the marinated chicken tenders out of the refrigerator and let any excess buttermilk drip off. Coat each tender thoroughly with the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Place the coated tenders on a tray or wire rack, ready for frying.

Frying the chicken

To achieve perfectly crispy and golden brown chicken tenders, frying is the way to go. Heat a large skillet or deep-fryer with enough oil to submerge the tenders. The oil should be hot but not smoking, ideally around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining tenders, adjusting the heat if necessary.

Tips

Use a meat thermometer

To ensure that your chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a tender, and it should read 165°F (74°C) when the chicken is fully cooked. This will help you avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken.

Cook in batches

It’s important not to overload the skillet or deep-fryer when frying the chicken tenders. Crowding the pan can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in greasy or soggy chicken. Fry the tenders in batches to maintain the optimal frying temperature and achieve crispy results.

Keep warm in the oven

If you’re frying multiple batches, you may want to keep the cooked chicken tenders warm while you finish frying. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F (93°C), and place the cooked tenders on a baking sheet. This will help them stay crispy and warm until you’re ready to serve.

Serve with dipping sauces

To elevate the flavor of your fried chicken tenders, consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic options like barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing are always crowd-pleasers. You can also get creative and try different homemade sauces, such as spicy sriracha mayo or tangy buffalo sauce. Dipping sauces add an extra level of deliciousness to your chicken tenders.

Variations

Spicy chicken tenders

If you like some heat in your chicken tenders, you can easily make them spicy. Simply add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour coating mixture. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness. The added kick will give your tenders a fiery flavor that will satisfy spicy food lovers.

Gluten-free chicken tenders

For those following a gluten-free diet, it’s possible to enjoy crispy chicken tenders without sacrificing flavor and texture. Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or a combination of almond flour and cornstarch. Make sure all other ingredients used, including spices and sauces, are also gluten-free to maintain a safe and delicious meal.

Parmesan chicken tenders

If you want to add a cheesy twist to your chicken tenders, try making Parmesan chicken tenders. Simply add grated Parmesan cheese to the flour coating mixture, along with the other spices. The addition of Parmesan will give your tenders a nutty and savory flavor, making them even more irresistible.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, if you can’t find chicken tenders, you can use chicken breasts instead. Cut the chicken breasts into strips or pieces that resemble tenders. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may take a little longer to cook compared to tenderloins.

Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?

While frying gives the chicken tenders that classic crispy texture, you can also bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, flipping halfway through. Although the texture will be slightly different, baked chicken tenders can still be delicious.

How long do leftovers last?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked chicken tenders can last for 3-4 days. To reheat them, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make the coating lose its crispiness.