Description
If you’re craving a delightful homemade treat that encapsulates everything deliciously crispy and juicy, then look no further than these crispy chicken tenders.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
For extra crispy tenders, incorporate 1 tablespoon of baking powder into the flour mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 27 g