If you’re craving a delightful homemade treat that encapsulates everything deliciously crispy and juicy, then look no further than these crispy chicken tenders. Elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe that produces perfectly golden bites every time. The appeal of these crispy chicken tenders lies in their satisfying crunch that is expertly balanced with tender, juicy chicken inside. Whether you’re preparing them for a family meal, a game-day snack, or a fun gathering, they’re a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways.

Cooked to perfection, these tenders offer a wonderful flavor profile enhanced by simple yet effective seasonings like paprika, garlic, and onion powder, complementing the chicken beautifully. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for added enjoyment, and let the taste take you on a delightful culinary journey. Plus, this recipe shines in its simplicity, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor—perfect for beginner cooks or busy chefs alike.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Tenders

Golden Crunch: The double-coating technique ensures a thick, crispy crust that locks in moisture, making every bite irresistible.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, these tenders are accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Dish: Serve them with a variety of dips, stack them in sandwiches, or add them to salads.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore them, making them a perfect choice for gatherings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to make your crispy chicken tenders a success. Start by ensuring you have a heavy skillet or a Dutch oven, as these will be essential for frying the chicken evenly and maintaining the right temperature throughout the cooking process. A thermometer is also advisable to monitor the oil’s heat, keeping it at the optimal 350°F.

Next, prepare your workspace by clearing off countertops and setting up a station for coating the chicken. You will need two mixing bowls: one for your dry ingredients, including flour, cornstarch, and spices; and another for your buttermilk and egg mixture. Having a wire rack accessible for resting the fried tenders will help maintain their crispiness and prevent them from getting soggy. Additionally, make sure you have a spatula for flipping the chicken and a pair of tongs for safely removing them from the hot oil.

Ingredients

1.5 pounds chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
<1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Begin by pouring oil into your heavy skillet or Dutch oven, ensuring it’s deep enough for frying the tenders. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Using a thermometer is beneficial here, as the right temperature is essential for achieving that crispy exterior while cooking the chicken perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Coatings

In one mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is key to giving the chicken tenders both flavor and texture. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and egg, whisking until well-blended. The buttermilk adds moisture, resulting in tender chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and first dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, move it into the buttermilk mixture, following with another dip back into the flour mixture. Press down gently to ensure the coating sticks well. This double-dipping technique creates a thick, crunchy layer that will hold up while frying.

Step 4: Rest the Tenders

Once all tenders are coated, let them rest for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This step allows the coating to adhere properly, which is crucial for keeping the crunch during frying.

Step 5: Fry the Tenders

Carefully place the chicken tenders into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. You’ll want to ensure they are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once the tenders are golden and cooked, place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil and maintain their crispiness. Serve them hot with your favorite sauces for a delightful meal or snack.

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken tenders with shrimp or tofu for a refreshing twist.
Vegetables: Try adding finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the flour mix for added nutrients and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spice blends such as cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a herbaceous flavor.

Cooking Notes

For extra crispy tenders, incorporate 1 tablespoon of baking powder into the flour mixture.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the crispy chicken tenders with a side of homemade ranch or honey mustard dipping sauce.
Stack them in buns to create delicious chicken sandwiches layered with lettuce and mayonnaise.

Tips

Ensure the oil is adequately heated before adding chicken to avoid greasy tenders.
Letting the tenders rest before frying helps the coating stick better and achieve maximum crunch.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 27g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the coated tenders on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

How can I store leftover chicken tenders?

Place any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven to restore some crispiness.

What are some dipping sauces that pair well with crispy chicken tenders?

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

Can I use different types of flour?

Absolutely! Alternative flours like almond flour or gluten-free blends work well if you’re looking for a healthier or gluten-free option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these crispy chicken tenders are not just a meal; they are an experience that brings joy to the dining table. Their delightful crunch and savory flavor provide the comfort that every home-cooked dish should offer. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so feel free to play around with variations and dipping sauces to suit your taste. We invite you to make these tenders at home and share your experience in the comments below—did you try any unique twists? Happy cooking!