Flavorful Fried Chicken Tenders: A Crispy Delight

There’s something universally comforting about biting into a piece of crispy, juicy fried chicken. Among the myriad ways to enjoy this classic dish, Flavorful Fried Chicken Tenders stand out for their perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a personal treat, these chicken tenders are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

To craft these delectable chicken tenders, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Breading:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

2. Prepare the Breading

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices.

3. Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature for optimal frying.

4. Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres well. For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip: return the floured tender to the buttermilk marinade briefly, then dredge again in the flour mixture.

5. Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each batch for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon to remove the tenders and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.

6. Serve

Serve the hot, crispy chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Pair with sides like coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Marination Time: While a minimum of 1 hour is sufficient, marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil at 350°F (175°C) ensures a crispy exterior without overcooking the interior.
• Double-Dipping: For an extra crunchy crust, consider double-dipping the chicken tenders in the marinade and flour mixture.
• Resting After Frying: Allow the fried tenders to rest on paper towels to drain excess oil, which helps maintain their crispiness.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: Yes, you can slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders. Ensure they are of uniform size for even cooking.

Q: Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Q: Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?
A: While baking won’t yield the same level of crispiness, you can bake the breaded tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For added crispiness, spray them with cooking oil before baking.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
A: Yes, after frying and cooling, place the tenders on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion

These Flavorful Fried Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of crispy coating and juicy interior, making them a favorite for many. With a simple marinade and a well-seasoned breading, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or party snack, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making them and the delicious results that follow.

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