Fried chicken tenders are a beloved dish, celebrated for their crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or as a party appetizer, these tenders are sure to please. This recipe outlines everything you need to create the perfect fried chicken tenders, from choosing the right ingredients to achieving the ideal crunch. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
- Optional: hot sauce for marinating
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (4 tenders) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
- In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and allow excess to drip off.
- Coat each tender in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Carefully place coated tenders in the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry each tender for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Let them rest for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Instead of buttermilk, a mixture of regular milk and vinegar can work well. Spices can also be adjusted based on personal preference.
Serving and Pairings
Fried chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. They are also great served with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover fried chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not marinating long enough, resulting in less flavorful chicken.
- Overcrowding the pan, leading to uneven cooking.
- Using oil that isn’t hot enough, causing soggy tenders.
- Skipping the resting period, which helps the coating adhere.
- Not pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken, leading to a less crispy texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature (around 350°F or 175°C is ideal).
- Try adding cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Experiment with different seasonings for a unique flavor.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for added variety.
FAQs
How do I make chicken tenders extra crispy?
For extra crispy chicken tenders, double-dip them by coating them in buttermilk, then flour, and repeating the process. This adds an extra layer of crunch.
Can I bake instead of fry chicken tenders?
Yes, you can bake chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken tenders?
Popular dipping sauces include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and hot sauce. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, frozen chicken tenders can be used, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and frying for the best results.
What should I do if my chicken tenders are greasy?
If your chicken tenders are greasy, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. Placing them on a paper towel-lined plate after cooking can also help absorb excess oil.
Conclusion
Fried chicken tenders are a delightful dish that combines crispy texture with juicy chicken, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. With this recipe, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy your delicious homemade tenders with a variety of sides and sauces!
Fried Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
- Optional: hot sauce for marinating
Instructions
- Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and allow excess to drip off.
- Coat each tender in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Carefully place coated tenders in the hot oil.
- Fry each tender for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway.
- Transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Let them rest for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
