Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Marinated in seasoned buttermilk and coated in a spiced flour mixture, these chicken tenders are perfect for a family dinner, a party, or a comforting meal. With their crunchy golden coating and tender inside, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Buttermilk Marinade
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 lbs chicken tenders
For the Coating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off.
- Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated tenders on a wire rack.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the coated chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken tenders for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the tenders will burn; if it’s too cool, the coating will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
Variations
- Spicy Fried Chicken Tenders: Add more cayenne pepper or even hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for extra heat.
- Herbed Chicken Tenders: Add 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs to the flour mixture for a herby flavor.
- Panko-Crusted Tenders: Substitute half of the flour with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
- Air Fryer Tenders: Coat the tenders as directed and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Regular Milk Instead of Buttermilk?
Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor, but you can use regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Tenders?
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
3. Can I Freeze Fried Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked tenders. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
4. What Oil Is Best for Frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good options for frying chicken because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo for dipping.
- Side Dishes: Pair with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
- Salad: Add these crispy chicken tenders to a fresh green salad for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With their flavorful, crispy coating and tender inside, these chicken tenders are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even adding them to a salad, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious crunch and flavor of homemade fried chicken tenders!