Crispy Homemade Chicken Tenders – A Family Favorite!
Make restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home! Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, these easy homemade chicken tenders are perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Shallow dish or plate
- Tongs
- Deep frying pan or heavy skillet
- Paper towels
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- Buttermilk Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking:
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken tenders, ensuring they're fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish or plate, mix flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove chicken tenders from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the coating mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even layer. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep frying pan or heavy skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Tenders:
- Carefully place chicken tenders into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and place on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.