Description

There’s nothing quite like biting into a piece of perfectly fried chicken that’s golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor. These buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser, offering a tender, juicy interior coated in a crunchy crust seasoned to perfection. Soaked in tangy buttermilk and spices, the chicken absorbs maximum flavor, while the seasoned breading creates a satisfying crunch. Whether served as a snack, an appetizer, or the main event, these chicken tenders are a surefire hit. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you’ll have a dish that’s both comforting and irresistible.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Marinade:
• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• For the Breading:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• For Frying:
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Preparation Method

1. Marinate chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for 2 hours or overnight.
2. Prepare breading by whisking flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish.
3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and coat in breading mixture, pressing firmly. For extra crispiness, dip in buttermilk again and coat in breading.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Test oil readiness with a piece of breading.
5. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Transfer fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For added flavor, sprinkle the chicken tenders with a pinch of sea salt immediately after frying. These tenders pair beautifully with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. If you prefer baking, place the breaded tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

These buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a delicious blend of crispy coating and juicy chicken, making them a hit for any occasion. Whether served with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or as part of a game-day spread, they deliver on flavor and texture. Explore more chicken recipes on our site and discover new ways to bring your favorite dishes to life. Share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade fried chicken that rivals any restaurant!