Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe: Crispy and Delicious Every Time
There’s nothing quite like biting into perfectly crispy fried chicken tenders. Whether cooking for a family dinner, a game day snack, or a casual get-together, this dish will quickly become your go-to recipe. With a crunchy coating and juicy interior, these tenders are irresistible and surprisingly easy to make at home.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Fried chicken tenders are a classic comfort food loved by both kids and adults. They are essentially strips of chicken that are breaded and fried to a flawless golden brown crisp. Their versatility sets them apart—they pair well with a wide range of dipping sauces and side dishes, making them perfect for any occasion.
Why Fried Chicken Tenders Are a Family Favorite
Fried chicken tenders are a hit in many households for good reasons:
- Easy to Eat: These tenders are perfect for small hands, making them a favorite among children. Plus, they’re boneless, so there’s no mess.
- Customizable Flavors: You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, from mild and savory to spicy and bold.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, chicken tenders fit into any meal plan seamlessly.
Their delicious flavor and convenience make them a staple in many kitchens. They’re a treat and a quick solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Essential Ingredients Essential Ingredients for Perfect Fried Chicken Tenders
You’ll need essential ingredients to create the ultimate fried chicken tenders. Everyone contributes a crucial part to accomplishing that perfect flavor and texture.
Key Ingredient 1: Chicken Tenders for Perfect Fried Chicken
The show’s star, chicken tenders, are lean strips of meat cut from the breast. They are tender and juicy and cook quickly, making them ideal for frying. You can find them pre-cut at the grocery store or slice your own from boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Pro Tip: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels before marinating to ensure the breading sticks well.
Key Ingredient 2: Buttermilk Marinade for Tender and Juicy Chicken
A buttermilk marinade gives fried chicken tenders their juicy and tender bite. The slight acidity of the buttermilk helps break down the chicken’s proteins, resulting in a more tender texture. It also adds a subtle tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy coating.
- Ingredients for the Marinade1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Marinating Tip: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but let it soak for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for the best results.
Key Ingredient 3: Breading Mixture for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders
The breading is what gives the fried chicken tenders their signature crunch. A well-seasoned mixture of all-purpose flour, spices, and some cornstarch creates a light, crispy, flavorful coating.
- Basic Breading Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Breading Technique: Dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture after marinating, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
Key Ingredient 4: Best Cooking Oil for Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Choosing the right oil can be the key to success or failure when frying chicken tenders. Choose a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil to fry the tenders evenly without burning.
- Frying Tips: Heat the oil to 350°F before adding the chicken tenders.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Utilize an opened spoon to eliminate the chicken, then drain it on a wire rack to keep it crispy.
How to Make It the Best Fried Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare and Trim the Chicken
Carefully trim any fat or tendons from the chicken tenders. Use a fork to help pull out challenging pieces if necessary, ensuring the chicken pieces are smooth and even.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Add salt and pepper to the chicken tenders in a large mixing basin, and add your choice of additional spices, like garlic powder or paprika. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring each tender is well-seasoned.
Step 3: Make the Breading Mixture
Additionally, combine two cups of all-purpose flour and one tablespoon of cornflour, half a teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of salt, one teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Optionally, add a bit of water to make the mixture slightly lumpy, which helps create an extra crispy crust.
Step 4: Dip the Chicken in a Wet Batter
Prepare a wet batter by mixing 1 cup of buttermilk with a beaten egg. Dip each tender in this batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. This layer helps the flour mixture stick better, resulting in a thicker crust.
Step 5: Prepare the Oil for Frying
Heat the oil in a big deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, as these have a high smoke point and are suitable for frying. Make sure there is at least an inch of oil for proper frying.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil. To ensure consistent frying and maintain the oil temperature, fry in small batches. Cook each tender for approximately 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Remove and Drain
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried tenders from the oil. Place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. It helps keep them crispy and prevents sogginess.
Step 8: Skim the Oil Between Batches
To keep the oil clean and prevent burnt bits from sticking to the tenders, use a fine-mesh strainer to skim out crumbs or flour residue between each batch.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
You can serve the chicken tenders hot with ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo as dipping sauces. Enjoy the crispy, golden tenders fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for Crispy and Juicy Chicken Tenders
Mastering the art of fried chicken tenders takes practice, but these pro tips will help you achieve the best results every time.
Tip 1: How to Achieve Extra Crispy Coating
Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to your flour mixture for extra crispy fried chicken tenders. This small addition makes a big difference by creating a light, airy crust.
- Bonus Tip: Let the breaded tenders rest. Let it sit briefly before frying to help the coating stick. Better.
Tip 2: How to Prevent the Breading from Falling Off
One of the most common issues when frying chicken tenders is the breading falling off. To prevent this, ensure the chicken is not overly wet when breading, and press the flour mixture firmly onto the tenders.
- Additional Advice: Avoid moving the tenders too much while frying; let them cook on one side before flipping.
Tip 3: Best Oils for Frying Chicken Tenders
Choosing the right oil is crucial for flavor and crispiness. Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
- Pro Tip: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of around 350°F to ensure even frying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fried chicken tenders are versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize and adjust the recipe. Here are some frequently asked questions.
How to Make It Without Buttermilk
If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute it with Combine milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. It will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and still tenderize the chicken effectively.
- Alternative: Greek yogurt mixed with water can also serve as an excellent buttermilk substitute.
Can You Bake or Air Fry These Chicken Tenders?
You can bake or air fry chicken tenders for a healthier version. Preheat your stove to 400°F (200°C) and bake the tenders on a greased baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Frying Tips: Air fry. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, halfway for even cooking.
How to Make Chicken Tenders Extra Juicy?
To keep chicken tenders juicy, don’t skip the marinating step. Marinating in buttermilk or a similar mixture helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Cooking Advice: Avoid overcooking; the tenders are done when the inward temperature comes to 165°F (74°C).
Delicious Variations Delicious Recipe Variations: Spicy, Gluten-Free, and More
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can change the recipe to make tasty variations that suit different preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few delicious twists on the classic fried chicken tenders. Spicy Fried Chicken Tenders with Hot Sauce
If you love a bit of heat, spicy fried chicken tenders with hot sauce are a must-try. Simply add a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade, and spice up the flour mixture with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Tips for Extra Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breading.
- Serve with a spicy dipping sauce like buffalo or sriracha mayo.
These tenders are perfect for those who enjoy a kick with their crispy chicken.
Buttermilk Ranch Chicken Tenders
For a flavorful twist, buttermilk ranch chicken tenders are infused with the classic taste of ranch seasoning. Mix in a packet of ranch seasoning, the flour mixture, and a few teaspoons of the buttermilk marinade.
- Suggestion: Pair these tenders with a ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra flavor.
This variation is a crowd-pleaser, combining the tangy taste of ranch with the crunch of fried chicken tenders.
Best Dipping Sauces for Fried Chicken Tenders
Dipping sauces elevates the experience of eating fried chicken tenders, adding layers of flavor that complement the crispy coating. Here are some famous and easy-to-make sauces to try.
Classic Honey Mustard Sauce
Honey mustard sauce is a timeless pairing with this recipe. It combines honey’s sweetness with mustard’s tanginess, creating a balanced, sweet, savory profile.
Just whisk the ingredients together and serve with your dish.
Spicy Horseradish Dipping Sauce
For those who like a bit of spice, a horseradish dipping sauce adds flavor. It’s creamy, zesty, and perfect for enhancing the taste of your chicken tenders.
Mix the ingredients and enjoy this spicy kick with your fried chicken tenders.
Blend every one of the fixings in a bowl, mix until smooth, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Fried chicken tenders can be served in various ways, which makes them a flexible choice for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your tenders.
The Greatest Appetizers for Chicken Tenders
Pairing fried chicken tenders with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some popular side dishes:
- Classic Options: French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw
- Mashed potatoes
- Healthier Choices: Steamed vegetables
- A fresh green salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
These sides balance your meal and make your fried chicken tenders even more satisfying.
Perfect Pairings: Chicken Strips and Fries
Chicken strips and fries are a classic combination that never goes out of style. Whether you choose crispy French fries, waffles, or zucchini fries, this pairing is always a hit.
- Pro Tip: Serve with various dipping sauces for an extra touch of fun and flavor.
This timeless duo makes for a perfect lunch, dinner, or game-day snack.
How to Store and Reheat this recipe
Storing and reheating your fried chicken tenders ensures they stay crispy and delicious, even the next day.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders
Legitimate capacity is fundamental for saving the nature of your fried chicken tenders. Follow these tips to keep them fresh:
- Storage Tips: Let the tenders cool entirely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For more extended storage, freeze the tenders. Orchestrate a solitary layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
These steps help keep the tenders fresh and prevent them from getting soggy.
How to Reheat Chicken Tenders to Keep Them Crispy
Reheating chicken tenders without losing their crispiness can be challenging, but it’s doable with the correct method.
- Reheating Options:Oven: Preheat to 375°F, place the tenders on a baking sheet, and prepare for 10-15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid the Microwave: It tends to make the tenders soggy.
These methods help maintain the crunch and flavor of your fried chicken tenders.
Nutrition Facts and Health Tips
While fried chicken tenders are a delicious treat, knowing their nutritional profile and ways to make them healthier is helpful.
Nutritional Information Per Serving
A typical serving of fried chicken tenders balances protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
- Nutritional Breakdown:Calories: 300-400 per serving (varies by recipe)
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbs: 20-25 grams
For a healthier option, consider baking or air frying your tenders. How to Make Healthier Fried Chicken Tenders
To make your fried chicken tenders a bit healthier, try these adjustments:
- Healthier Modifications: Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for breading.
- Opt for baking or air frying instead of deep frying.
- Use egg whites instead of whole eggs in the breading process.
These simple changes can reduce the calorie and fat content without compromising taste.
Conclusion: Make Fried Chicken Tenders Your Go-To Recipe
Fried chicken tenders are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
Final Thoughts on Fried Chicken Tenders
Whether hosting a gathering or cooking for your family, fried chicken tenders are always a winning choice. With endless variations, dipping sauces, and serving options, they never get boring.
Share Your Fried Chicken Tender Creations
We’d love to see how you enjoy your fried chicken tenders! Share your creations on social media with us, and don’t forget to try different variations to find your favorite.
Fried Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and Easy to Make!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken strips or boneless skinless chicken bosoms cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for extra spice
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: The chicken tenders, buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper should all be combined in a big bowl. In order to coat all of the chicken pieces, thoroughly mix. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for optimal effects.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. To form an egg wash, beat the eggs with two tablespoons of water in a partitioned bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade made with buttermilk, letting any extra runoff. To get a double coating, dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and afterwards, back into the flour blend. When fried, this will produce a crispy, golden exterior.
- Heat the Oil: Empty vegetable oil into a large skillet or frying pan to about 1/2 inch depth. Heat the oil over medium intensity until it comes to 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by decreasing a little slice of bread or player into the oil; it should sizzle and become brilliant brown in a few moments.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until brilliant brown is cooked through. The inward temperature ought to reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Rest: Remove the chicken tenders from the oil utilizing an opened spoon and put them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fried chicken tenders hot with your favourite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Appreciate them as a fundamental dish with sides or as a delightful snack!
Notes
- For Extra Crispiness, Add a bit of panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture for an even crunchier coating.
- Make It Ahead: You can marinate the chicken as long as 24 hours ahead for deeper flavour.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper for a spicier version or add different spices like smoked paprika or chilli powder.