Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe In 6 Steps
Introduction:
If you love fried chicken, this Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe is sure to become your new favorite go-to. These tenders are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making dinner for your family, preparing for a casual gathering, or just craving comfort food, these homemade chicken tenders will beat any restaurant version.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Crispy and golden without becoming greasy
- Perfectly seasoned for a flavorful bite
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Ideal for quick dinners or weekend snacks
- A hit with both kids and adults
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips) | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Oil for frying | As needed |
How to Make Fried Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken tenders and marinate for at least one hour, or overnight if possible. This helps make the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Step 3: Dredge and Coat
Remove each chicken strip from the buttermilk, dip it into the flour mix, then into the egg, and once again in the flour mixture. Double coating creates an extra-crispy texture.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken tenders in batches for about 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Set the tenders on a wire rack or paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your freshly fried chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with fries or mashed potatoes
- Add to a wrap or sandwich
- Serve over mac and cheese
- Dip in spicy or garlic-flavored sauces
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
- Use buttermilk to tenderize the meat and add flavor
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying
- Keep the oil temperature steady for even cooking
- Let tenders rest on a rack for a crispy finish
Final Thoughts
You don’t need takeout to enjoy perfectly crispy fried chicken tenders. With simple ingredients and the right technique, you can make restaurant-quality tenders right at home. Each bite is juicy, flavorful, and satisfying the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How can I make fried chicken tenders extra crispy?
Use a mix of flour and cornstarch, and double coat the chicken before frying.
Can I bake or air-fry them instead?
Yes. For a lighter option, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes.
How long can fried chicken tenders stay fresh in the fridge?
Keep them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best taste and texture, reheat them in the oven or air fryer.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze cooked tenders for up to three months and reheat directly from frozen until hot.
Conclusion:
With this Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe, you don’t need to rely on takeout to enjoy crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken at home. From the buttermilk marinade to the double coating and golden frying, every step is designed to deliver restaurant-quality results that everyone will love. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep, these tenders are versatile, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Grab your favorite dipping sauces, pair with your preferred sides, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience right in your own kitchen.