Fried Chicken Tenders are a delicious and crispy treat that everyone loves. These juicy strips of chicken are coated in a flavorful batter and fried to golden perfection, making them a favorite for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish, these chicken tenders are versatile and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor. Quick and easy to make, they’re perfect for a family dinner, game day, or any occasion that calls for something crunchy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour and cornstarch together. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour and cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Place the coated tenders on a wire rack to rest while you heat the oil.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the fried chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ketchup.
Enjoy your Fried Chicken Tenders, a crispy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
