If you have a craving for something that’s perfectly crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, you’re going to fall in love with this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s as comforting as it is addictive, bringing together simple ingredients to create a golden, flavorful bite that’s irresistible. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a casual get-together, these tenders deliver a satisfying crisp with every mouthful, paired with tender, succulent chicken inside. Let me take you through everything you need to know to master this classic favorite at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward frying up perfection. Each item here plays a crucial role: from tenderizing the chicken to adding that beloved spice and crispiness we all seek. Keeping it simple means the natural taste of the chicken shines through with just enough seasoning and crunch.
- 1 lb chicken tenders: The star of the dish, these tender strips cook quickly and stay juicy without bones.
- 2 cups buttermilk: This tangy soak helps tenderize the chicken and ensures a moist interior.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the crispy coating that gets golden and crunchy when fried.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor plus a touch of vibrant color to the coating.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the crust with savory warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly, balancing seasoning throughout.
- Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to get that perfect golden crust.
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by submerging your chicken tenders in buttermilk. This step is pure magic for tenderness – the acidity in the buttermilk breaks down proteins, yielding irresistibly soft chicken. Cover and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour, though if you have the time, marinating overnight really amps up the flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour Mix
While the chicken marinates, mix your dry ingredients together in a bowl. Combining the flour with paprika, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper creates a wonderfully seasoned crust. This blend forms the basis for the crispy texture and rich taste you’ll adore.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Remove each tender from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip away, then dredge them thoroughly in your seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour gently into the chicken to make sure it clings well – this ensures that perfect crunch after frying. Don’t rush this step; a good coating makes all the difference.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Get your frying oil ready by heating it to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or fryer. Maintaining the right temperature is key. Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too cool, and the tenders soak up oil and become greasy. A little kitchen thermometer helps immensely here.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Carefully drop the coated tenders into the hot oil in batches, giving them space to crisp evenly without crowding. Fry for 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through inside. Keep an eye on them and turn as needed for even coloring.
Step 6: Drain and Serve Hot
Once fried, transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any extra oil. Serving them immediately while hot is ideal, guaranteeing that unmistakable fresh-fried crispiness you’re aiming for. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces to elevate every bite.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the tenders for a bright, fresh touch that contrasts beautifully with the hearty crunch. A wedge of lemon on the side can add a burst of acidity that cuts through the richness delightfully. Even a drizzle of honey or spicy sauce can take your serving up several notches.
Side Dishes
Chicken tenders shine when paired with classic sides like crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For something a bit different, try pairing with roasted vegetables or a tangy cucumber salad – these sides add color and lighten the meal perfectly. Mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your crispy fried chicken tenders as sliders with mini buns and your favorite toppings for a fun twist. You can also turn them into a salad topper, adding texture and protein to leafy greens. Or assemble a dipping platter with multiple sauces—ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce—to keep everyone happily dunking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the tenders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy that crispy, flavorful bite without the work all over again.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the fried tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from sticking together, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated tenders in an oven or air fryer for best results—this helps retain their crunch rather than becoming soggy like microwaving can cause. Preheat to 375°F and heat for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through. You’ll get that fresh-from-the-fryer texture back in no time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders; just be sure to adjust frying time to ensure they cook through without drying out.
What makes the chicken tenders crispy?
The combination of buttermilk soaking and the seasoned flour coating creates a batter that crisps up beautifully when fried, locking in moisture while giving you that satisfying crunch.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
You can bake the tenders for a healthier option, though they won’t be quite as crispy. To bake, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet and cook at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best. They allow the tenders to crisp nicely without imparting extra flavors or burning quickly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At minimum, an hour gives good tenderness, but ideally, marinate overnight for maximum flavor and juiciness, especially if you have the time.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort food. The perfect balance of crunchy, flavorful coating and tender, juicy chicken inside is a combination that’s hard to beat. Whether for a family dinner, a casual party, or just a treat-yourself moment, you won’t regret making these tenders a part of your kitchen repertoire. Now, go ahead and fry up some joy!
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Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders offers a deliciously crunchy and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Marinated in buttermilk for tenderness, then coated with a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection, these chicken tenders promise a juicy interior with a satisfying crisp exterior.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 cups buttermilk
Breading
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Frying
- Oil for frying (enough for deep frying’)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight to maximize tenderness and flavor.
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined, creating a flavorful coating.
- Coat the chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres firmly.
- Heat the oil: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C), which is the ideal temperature for achieving a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken.
- Fry the tenders: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil in batches, frying each for 5–6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through inside.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried tenders and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For even crispier tenders, double dredge by dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and then flour mixture once more.
- Make sure the oil temperature stays steady at 350°F to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy or undercooked.
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken significantly.
- Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
