Fried Chicken Tenders

Name: Fried Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil (for frying)

Get ready to indulge in the crispy, juicy delight of fried chicken tenders! These tender morsels are marinated in a blend of spices, coated in a crunchy breading, and fried to perfection. Perfect for dipping and sharing, they make a fantastic addition to any meal or a tasty snack for game day. Follow this recipe to create a dish that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!

Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil (for frying)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 3 tenders) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g protein, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, combine flour and the spice mixture.
4. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
5. Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off.
6. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
7. Dip the floured tenders back into the buttermilk.
8. Coat the tenders in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
9. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
10. Fry the tenders in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free option. Alternatively, use chicken breasts cut into strips instead of tenders.

Serving and Pairings

These fried chicken tenders are delicious served with dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing. Pair them with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store cooked 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 keep them crispy. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Not marinating long enough, which can lead to less flavor.
Overcrowding the frying pan, resulting in uneven cooking.
Using oil that’s not hot enough, making the tenders soggy.
Skipping the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Not letting the oil return to temperature between batches.

Helpful Tips

Use a thermometer to check oil temperature (around 350°F/175°C).
Let tenders rest on a wire rack after frying to avoid sogginess.
Experiment with spices in the flour for different flavors.
Make a larger batch and freeze for quick snacks.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken tenders are cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can cut one open to ensure no pink remains.

Can I bake chicken tenders instead of frying?

Yes, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

What dipping sauces go well with fried chicken tenders?

Popular choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and coating for the best results.

How can I make fried chicken tenders spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or spice mix for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Fried chicken tenders are a timeless classic that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite!