Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes: Fried Chicken Tenders! I remember the first time I made them; the smell of the crispy, golden-brown batter wafting through the kitchen was pure magic. Since that day, I’ve made these tenders countless times, and they never fail to impress. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or just a cozy night in, these tenders are an absolute game-changer. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a culinary genius to whip these up. The steps are straightforward and manageable for cooks of all levels.
- Versatile: Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, toss them on a salad, or make a delicious sandwich. The possibilities are endless!
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of herbs and spices in the batter gives these tenders a mouthwatering taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Perfectly Crispy: The coating is a mix of crunch and juiciness that makes each bite irresistible.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these tenders in advance and freeze them for a quick meal anytime.
The Secret to Perfect Fried Chicken Tenders
The key to achieving that perfect fried chicken tender lies in the marinade! Soaking the chicken strips in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor. I always let my chicken marinate for at least a couple of hours, but if you can do it overnight, even better! It’s like a secret weapon that ensures each bite is juicy and loaded with flavor. Trust me, it’s the little details that make a huge difference!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“These fried chicken tenders are the best I’ve ever had! The crunchiness is to die for, and my kids can’t get enough!” – Sarah L.
“I made these for a game night, and they were a total hit! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. Thanks for sharing!” – Mike T.
“This is my new go-to recipe for family dinners! So easy and delicious. I’m officially obsessed!” – Jenna R.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Southern Style: Add cayenne pepper and paprika to the batter for an extra kick.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush the cooked tenders with a mixture of honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Garlic Parmesan: Toss the cooked tenders in garlic butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Buffalo Style: Coat the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a fiery flavor that will leave you craving more.
Bonus: Experiment with different herbs in your batter! Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a delightful twist.
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips to achieve that tender shape.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to preserve their crispiness!
Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes! Once they’re cooked and cooled, you can freeze them. Just make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
What’s the best dipping sauce for these tenders?
I highly recommend ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a classic BBQ sauce. Each brings out the delicious flavors of the chicken!
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, allow tenders to cool completely before placing them in a freezer bag.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain that crispy texture.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for a fun tasting experience!
Perfect Occasions for Fried Chicken Tenders
- Family movie nights – serve with popcorn and your favorite flick!
- Game day parties – they’re the perfect finger food!
- Picnics in the park – pack them up with some dipping sauces for a great outdoor meal.
- Casual dinner parties – impress your guests with your cooking skills!
- Kids’ birthday parties – a hit with both kids and adults!
The Complete Recipe
Thanks for sticking with me! Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making your own Fried Chicken Tenders!
Fried Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Tip: For extra flavor, feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the flour mixture!
Extend ingredients section: If you want to make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For an extra crunch, consider adding panko bread crumbs to the flour mixture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Make sure they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. This step is crucial for flavor and tenderness!
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning blend is what gives your chicken that incredible flavor. Mix it well so each bite is packed with taste.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. To test if it’s ready, drop a small pinch of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take the marinated chicken from the fridge and shake off the excess buttermilk. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated. This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remember to keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary!
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, place the tenders on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This will keep them nice and crispy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch everyone devour them!
Nutrition Info: Each serving of Fried Chicken Tenders is approximately 200 calories, with a good amount of protein and delicious flavor that will satisfy your cravings!
Final Thoughts
I can’t express enough how special this Fried Chicken Tenders recipe is! It’s a crowd-pleaser, a comfort food classic, and an adventure in the kitchen all rolled into one. I encourage you to give it a try, and I promise you’ll be wowed by the results. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
Fried Chicken Tenders
-
Total Time:
150 mins -
Yield:
4 servings
Delight your family with crispy herb-infused fried chicken tenders, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to make and irresistible!
Ingredients
- • 1 lb chicken tenders
- • 2 cups buttermilk
- • 1 cup all-purpose flour
- • 1 tsp garlic powder
- • 1 tsp onion powder
- • 1 tsp paprika
- • 1/2 tsp salt
- • 1/2 tsp black pepper
- • Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Make sure they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it well so each bite is packed with taste.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat.
- Coat the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken from the fridge and shake off the excess buttermilk. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, place the tenders on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 120 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Method: Oven
