Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

ByMia Harper
Crispy buttermilk fried chicken tenders served with dipping sauce
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Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor, buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a delightful comfort food that can brighten any meal. With a golden crust on the outside and juicy chicken on the inside, this dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or a special treat just for you. Dipped in your favorite sauce or enjoyed on their own, these tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours for marinating)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450
  • Protein: 30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 34 grams
  • Fat: 24 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Sugar: 0 grams
  • Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Making buttermilk fried chicken tenders is all about the rich flavors and delightful textures. The buttermilk marinade not only adds a tangy taste but also helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in succulent bites. This recipe is versatile enough to allow room for improvisation with spices and sauces. Whether you’re prepping for a family meal or a party, these tenders are always a crowd-pleaser.

How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Creating these irresistible chicken tenders is a straightforward process that rewards you with mouthwatering results. Follow the detailed steps for perfectly fried, crispy tenders.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil for deep frying

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken tenders, turning them to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

  • Step 2: Mixing

    In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder. Mix well so that all the spices are evenly distributed.

  • Step 3: Cooking

    Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Arrange the coated tenders on a plate.

  • Step 4: Finishing

    In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken tenders in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Once cooked, transfer the fried tenders to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot!

How to Serve Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Serve your buttermilk fried chicken tenders hot out of the fryer for the best experience. These tenders can be accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy mayo. Pair them with sides like coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad to make a complete meal. They also work wonderfully as a party appetizer, perfect for sharing!

How to Store Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave as this can lead to soggy tenders.

Expert Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

  • Letting the chicken marinate for a longer duration enhances the flavor and tenderness. Overnight is ideal!
  • Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying; this prevents the chicken from absorbing excess oil.
  • Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; fry in small batches for even cooking.
  • For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
  • Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture to customize the flavor to your liking.

Delicious Variations

  • Spicy BBQ Tenders: Add a tablespoon of your favorite barbecue seasoning into the flour mixture for an added smoky flavor.
  • Herbed Tenders: Mix dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the buttermilk marinade for a herby twist.
  • Baked Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
    It’s best to thaw frozen chicken tenders completely before marinating to ensure even coating and cooking.

  • What can I substitute for buttermilk?
    You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead?
    Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

  • What oil is best for frying?
    Vegetable oil is great, but canola or peanut oil also works well due to their high smoke points.

  • How do I know when the chicken is done?
    Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Conclusion

With their crunchy exterior and juicy interior, buttermilk fried chicken tenders offer a simple yet delicious meal the whole family will love. They are not only easy to make but also allow for customization based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a snack during game day, these tenders will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making this fantastic recipe!

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Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

  • Author: mia-harper
  • Total Time: 150 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian
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Description

Crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor, buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a delightful comfort food perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken tenders, turning them to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder. Mix well so that all the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Arrange the coated tenders on a plate.
  4. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken tenders in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Once cooked, transfer the fried tenders to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot!

Notes

Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.

  • Prep Time: 135 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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