There’s something undeniably comforting about Crispy Chicken Tenders. They remind me of family gatherings, where laughter mingled with the aroma of fried chicken wafting through the air. This recipe is a quick solution for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, these tenders are sure to impress your loved ones. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a game day feast, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Tenders
These Crispy Chicken Tenders are a game-changer for any home cook. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients. The best part? You can whip them up in under 20 minutes once the marinating is done. Each bite is a delightful crunch, bursting with flavor. Perfect for picky eaters or a late-night snack, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Tenders
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating those mouthwatering Crispy Chicken Tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into strips for that perfect tender bite.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and flavor, making the chicken juicy. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix milk with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor.
Black pepper: A must for a little kick. Freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds a subtle sweetness.
Paprika: This gives a lovely color and a hint of smokiness. You can use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
All-purpose flour: The base for your coating, helping to create that crispy exterior.
Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): These provide the crunch! Panko is lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, making your tenders extra crispy.
Vegetable oil: For frying. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, for the best results.
For those looking to elevate their tenders, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders
Creating Crispy Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a plate of golden-brown tenders ready to impress.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a large bowl. This marinade is the secret to juicy chicken. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. If you have time, marinate overnight for even more flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the coating. In a shallow dish, mix together all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs. For an extra crunch, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the mix. When the chicken is ready, remove it from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, pour in about an inch of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry. Be patient; the right temperature is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the 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 4-5 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
Always marinate the chicken for at least an hour; it makes a world of difference in flavor and juiciness.
Use a thermometer to check oil temperature; too hot can burn, too cool can make them soggy.
Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Let the tenders rest on paper towels to keep them crispy.
Experiment with spices in the coating for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For marinating the chicken. A zip-top bag works too!
Shallow dish: To mix the flour and breadcrumbs. A plate can do the trick.
Skillet: A deep skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for frying.
Meat thermometer: To ensure chicken is cooked through. A simple knife can check doneness too.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil. A wire rack is a great alternative!
Variations
Spicy Crispy Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a fiery kick.
Herb-Infused Tenders: Mix dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning into the flour mixture for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a tangy twist, perfect for game day!
Parmesan Crusted Tenders: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb coating for an extra cheesy crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a flavor explosion.
Fresh Sides: Pair with a crisp salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the tenders.
Drink Pairings: Enjoy with a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect meal.
Presentation: Arrange tenders on a platter with colorful veggies for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Crispy Chicken Tenders
Got questions about making the perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you on your culinary journey.
Can I bake Crispy Chicken Tenders instead of frying them?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
How do I store leftover chicken tenders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What dipping sauces pair well with Crispy Chicken Tenders?
There are so many delicious options! Classic choices include ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce. For a twist, try a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy buffalo sauce.
Can I freeze the chicken tenders before frying?
Yes, you can! After coating the tenders, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Making Crispy Chicken Tenders is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of biting into that crunchy exterior, followed by the tender, juicy chicken inside, is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or enjoying a late-night snack, these tenders bring smiles and satisfaction. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit any palate. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of frying chicken fill your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Crispy Chicken Tenders are perfectly fried strips of chicken that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the chicken strips to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best flavor.
In a shallow dish, mix the flour and breadcrumbs together. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, 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 chicken tenders in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crunch, try adding 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper to the buttermilk marinade or the flour mixture to taste.
