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Chicken Tenders
Enjoy crispy, golden chicken tenders that everyone loves. Perfect for any meal, these easy-to-make tenders will become a family favorite.
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Make these crispy, golden, homemade chicken tenders that kids and adults love. Perfect for any meal, these tenders are irresistibly delicious. Quick and easy to prepare, you'll enjoy making this crowd-pleaser at home.
This recipe is easy to make, and you can follow the guide below. We provide step-by-step photos, directions, pro tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
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Whip up these crispy tenders in just 30 minutes for a delicious meal everyone will love. Perfect for parties, dinners, or potlucks, our recipe features a golden, crunchy coating and juicy, tender chicken inside. Their mouth-watering flavor makes them a standout favorite for any occasion. Don't miss out on this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that's sure to impress!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Chicken Tenders recipe:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast tenders (or 4 medium-size boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 cups vegetable oil
- Dipping sauce of your choice (optional) – try our copycat Chick Fil A sauce
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your chicken recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your tenders uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Chicken: Use turkey breast or tofu for a different protein in your chicken tenders.
- Add Spices: Mix paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper into the breading for extra flavor and a spicy kick.
- Use Different Coatings: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko for a different texture and crunch.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add grated Parmesan or cheddar to the breading for a cheesy twist on your chicken tenders.
How to Make Chicken Tenders
Follow our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks below to make the best chicken tenders. Let's get started and enjoy this delicious recipe together!
Pro Tip
This is not a “small” kid-friendly meal as it has a spicy breading. Of course, that is up to you since you know what your little ones like.
FIRST STEP: Add the buttermilk and sriracha to a small mixing bowl and whisk to combine.
SECOND STEP: Place the chicken in either a gallon-size Ziploc or a disposable 1-gallon container with a lid. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the tenders. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
THIRD STEP: Add the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, pepper, onion powder, baking powder, and smoked paprika to a large shallow bowl. Whisk to combine. Set it aside.
FOURTH STEP: In a second shallow dish, add the eggs and beat with a fork.
FIFTH STEP: Add the vegetable oil to a 5 to 6 quart Dutch oven and heat on high until the oil reaches 350°F.
Pro Tip
It is not a must, but it is very helpful to use a thermometer for the oil temperature. This will help keep your oil at the correct and safe temperature.
SIXTH STEP: Line a separate baking dish or large platter with paper towels to drain the cooked tenders.
SEVENTH STEP: Using tongs, remove the marinated tenders, one at a time, and dredge in the flour mixture.
EIGHTH STEP: Next, dredge in the beaten egg mixture, and then dredge once more in the flour mixture. Discard the buttermilk marinade once all of the tenders are removed. Do not reuse the buttermilk marinade.
NINTH STEP: Place the dredged chicken in the heated oil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until golden brown. Cook up to 4 to 5 tenders at a time. Keep a close eye on the oil, if the oil temperature becomes too high, reduce the heat to medium-high or medium.
Pro Tip
For perfectly fried chicken pieces, maintain a decent depth of oil and the proper oil temperature of 350°F for best results.
TENTH STEP: Once the tenders are golden brown, place them on the paper towel to drain. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or white gravy.
Pro Tip
When removing the chicken from the pot, use a slotted spoon to make sure you drain as much oil as possible before transferring it to the plate.
How to Serve Chicken Tenders
You can serve this recipe at birthday parties, family dinners, or summer barbecues. Kids and adults both love this tasty dish.
- Birthday Parties: Serve chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces. Pair them with fries (and fry sauce) and a fresh green salad for a fun, teen-friendly meal. To make these chicken fingers little-kid-friendly, remove the sriracha and paprika from the breading.
- Family Dinners: Make chicken tenders the star of your family dinners. Serve them with fried potatoes and vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Summer Barbecues: Perfect for summer barbecues, serve chicken tenders alongside corn on the cob and a refreshing coleslaw. This combination keeps everyone happy and full.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Tenders Recipe
Buttermilk chicken tenders are more than just a meal—they're a beloved favorite for several delightful reasons:
- A Symphony of Flavors: This recipe perfectly combines tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, golden coating. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and savory taste.
- Evokes Warm Memories: For many, the taste of chicken tenders brings back fond memories of family dinners, picnics, and birthday parties. It's a comforting classic that conjures feelings of home and happiness.
- More Than Just a Meal: Beyond being a delicious main dish, chicken tenders provide an exciting blend of textures and flavors.
This recipe isn't just tasty—they bring joy and comfort to any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this crowd-pleasing recipe with your loved ones!
Recipe FAQ
How do I make crispy chicken tenders?
Coat the chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs and bake or fry until golden and crispy for the best results. For even more crispy texture, spray the chicken with cooking spray mid-way through cooking.
Can I use an air fryer for chicken tenders?
Yes, cook the breaded chicken in the air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How long should I marinate chicken tenders?
Marinate the chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes but an hour is best for maximum flavor.
What temperature should chicken tenders be cooked to?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked tenders.
Serving FAQ
How should I serve chicken tenders at a party?
Serve on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces. This setup makes it easy for guests to enjoy.
Can I serve chicken tenders for lunch?
Yes, serve the tenders with a side of fries or a fresh salad. This combination makes for a satisfying lunch.
Are chicken tenders good for kids' meals?
Kids love chicken tenders because they are crispy and easy to eat. Serve them with their favorite dipping sauces, but keep in mind, the sriracha and paprika may be too spicy for little ones.
What occasions are perfect for serving chicken tenders?
Serve at birthday parties, family gatherings, or casual dinners. They are versatile and always a hit with guests.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your chicken tenders. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered.
Can I prepare chicken tenders ahead of time?
While we think making this recipe fresh is best, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
What's the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days.
Is it possible to freeze chicken tenders?
Yes, freeze cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight.
How do I thaw and reheat frozen chicken tenders?
Thaw the cooked chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Can I reheat chicken tenders in the microwave?
Yes, for quick reheating, use the microwave in 30-second increments. Be careful not to overcook them.
Chicken Tenders
Enjoy crispy, golden chicken tenders that everyone loves. Perfect for any meal, these easy-to-make tenders will become a family favorite.
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast tenders (or 4 medium-size boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into tenders)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 6 cups vegetable oil
- dipping sauce of your choice (optional – try our copycat Chick Fil A sauce)
DIRECTIONS
- Add the buttermilk and sriracha to a small mixing bowl and whisk to combine.
- Place the chicken breast tenders in either a gallon-size Ziploc or a disposable 1-gallon container with a lid. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken breast tenders. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Add the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, pepper, onion powder, baking powder, and smoked paprika to a large shallow mixing bowl. Whisk to combine. Set it aside.
- In a medium-sized shallow mixing bowl, add the eggs and beat with a fork.
- Add the vegetable oil to a 5 to 6-quart dutch oven and heat on high until the oil reaches 350°F.
- Line a separate baking dish or large platter with paper towels to drain the cooked tenders.
- Using tongs, remove the marinated chicken tenders, one at a time, and dredge in the flour mixture.
- Next, dredge in the beaten egg, and then dredge once more in the flour mixture. Discard the buttermilk marinade once all of the tenders are removed. Do not reuse the buttermilk mixture.
- Place the dredged chicken in the heated oil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until golden brown. Cook up to 4 to 5 tenders at a time. Keep a close eye on the oil, if the oil temperature becomes too high, reduce the heat to medium-high or medium.
- Once the chicken tenders are golden brown, place them on the paper towels to drain. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or white gravy.
Notes
-
Once the chicken tenders are golden brown, place them on the paper towels to drain. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or white gravy.
- It is not a must, but it is very helpful to use a thermometer for the oil temperature. This will help keep your oil at the correct and safe temperature.
- For perfectly fried chicken pieces, maintain a decent depth of oil and the proper oil temperature of 350°F for best results.
- When removing the chicken from the pot, use a slotted spoon to make sure you drain as much oil as possible before transferring it to the plate.
Nutrition
Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 51mg | Sodium: 433mg | Potassium: 88mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 161IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 1mg
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