There’s something magical about the sound of crispy fried chicken tenders sizzling in hot oil. It takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and the aroma of fried goodness made everyone’s mouth water. These Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders are not just a meal; they’re a quick solution for busy weeknights or a delightful treat for game day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies. Let’s dive into this crunchy delight that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
These Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders are a game-changer in the kitchen. They’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight. The crunch of the golden coating paired with juicy chicken is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile! Serve them as a main dish, a party snack, or even a fun finger food for the kids. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating those mouthwatering Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken tenderloins: The star of the show! These are tender cuts that cook quickly and stay juicy.
All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your breading, giving that essential crunch.
Buttermilk: A key player for marinating, it tenderizes the chicken and adds a rich flavor.
Garlic powder: For a savory kick that elevates the taste of the chicken.
Onion powder: Adds depth and sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness and a lovely color to the coating.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.
Black pepper: A must-have for a bit of heat and flavor contrast.
Cayenne pepper: Optional, but if you like a little heat, this is your go-to!
Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular, they create that irresistible crispy exterior.
Vegetable oil: For frying, it’s important to use an oil with a high smoke point.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to experiment with spices or even add some grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs for a unique twist!
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is where the magic begins. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. This mixture not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes it, making each bite juicy and delicious. Let the chicken tenderloins soak in this flavorful bath for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge. Trust me, the longer, the better!
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
Setting up your breading stations is key to a smooth process. Grab two shallow dishes: one for the flour and another for the breadcrumbs. This setup makes it easy to coat the chicken without making a mess. You can even add some spices to the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost. Having everything ready will save you time and keep your kitchen organized!
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders
Now comes the fun part—bread the chicken! Start by removing a tenderloin from the marinade, letting the excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge it in the flour, shaking off any extra. Then, dip it back into the buttermilk before coating it in breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. This double-dipping technique creates a thicker, crunchier crust that’s simply irresistible. Repeat this for all the tenderloins, and get ready for frying!
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Getting the oil temperature just right is crucial for perfect frying. In a large skillet, pour in about an inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach around 350°F. A simple test? Drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go. This ensures your chicken tenders fry up crispy and golden without absorbing too much oil.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy tenders. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. To check for doneness, cut into one of the tenders; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be white throughout. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate. This helps drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch as everyone digs in. These Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit, whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack!
Tips for Success
For extra crunch, double-dip your chicken in flour, buttermilk, and breadcrumbs.
Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature for frying.
Let the chicken rest for a minute after frying to maintain its juiciness.
Experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture for unique flavors.
Keep a close eye on the frying time to avoid overcooking.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For marinating the chicken. A mixing bowl works too.
Shallow dishes: For flour and breadcrumbs. Pie plates are a great alternative.
Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal, but any large frying pan will do.
Slotted spoon: For draining the chicken. Tongs can also work well.
Thermometer: To check oil temperature. A simple candy thermometer is perfect.
Variations
Spicy Buffalo Tenders: Toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a fiery kick.
Herb-Infused Tenders: Mix dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh flavor.
Parmesan Crusted: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy, savory twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a safe option.
Asian-Inspired Tenders: Use sesame oil for frying and coat with a mixture of soy sauce and ginger in the marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a crowd-pleaser.
Fresh Sides: Pair with coleslaw, crispy fries, or a light salad for balance.
Presentation: Arrange tenders on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a pop of color.
FAQs about Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be cut into strips to create your own tenders. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
How do I keep my chicken tenders crispy after frying?
To maintain that delightful crunch, place the cooked tenders on a wire rack instead of a plate. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing sogginess.
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and bread it ahead of time. Just store the breaded tenders in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. This makes for a quick meal when you need it!
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
These Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders are fantastic with a variety of sauces. Try classic ranch, zesty honey mustard, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for a kick!
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the best crunch, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts
Cooking these Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The joy of watching family and friends gather around the table, eagerly reaching for those golden, crunchy bites, is truly special. Each tender is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life—good food, laughter, and shared moments. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tenders are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders are a quick and crunchy delight, perfect for a family meal or a party snack.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds chicken tenderloins
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken tenderloins and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for better flavor and tenderness.
In a separate shallow dish, place the flour. In another shallow dish, add the breadcrumbs.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each tenderloin in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by repeating the flour, buttermilk, and breadcrumb steps.
Try adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian seasoning or Parmesan cheese, for a unique flavor twist.
