Description
Crispy and flavorful Buttermilk Chicken Tenders marinated to perfection and fried until golden brown. This recipe reveals five key secrets to achieving tender, juicy chicken tenders with a crunchy seasoned coating, perfect for a family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil preferred)
Instructions
- Marinate: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare Coating: In a separate large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Heat Oil: Pour oil into a frying pan to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches approximately 350°F (175°C) or when a small amount of flour sprinkled in sizzles immediately.
- Coat Chicken: Remove chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade one at a time, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere an even coating.
- Fry: Carefully place coated chicken tenders in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the coating is crispy and golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried chicken tenders from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for the full 2 hours or overnight if possible.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy coating.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning in flour mixture to taste; you can add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
