Perfectly Crispy Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This simple recipe offers a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. These chicken tenders are perfect for quick meals, parties, or as an after-school treat.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk (or milk)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
Peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

To make these delicious chicken tenders, you'll need some basic ingredients. Start by preparing your marinade. Slice the chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch thick and place them in a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and stir to ensure it is evenly coated. Let this mixture sit for at least one hour in the refrigerator. This allows the tenders to become tenderized and absorb flavors.

While the chicken marinates, prepare your breading mix. In another large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated into a smooth mixture.

After the marination period is complete, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off any excess liquid. One by one, dip each strip of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing it lightly to make sure every part of the chicken is fully coated. Allow excess flour to fall back into the bowl.

Frying

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken will be crispy without burning. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to greasy results.

Fry each batch of chicken tenders for about 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Be sure to use a fork to gently flip them over halfway through cooking so that both sides get equal attention.

Draining

Once the chicken is fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon to transfer the tenders onto paper towels for draining any excess oil. Allow them to sit and cool slightly before serving to enjoy their crispiness at its best.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken tenders can be paired with various sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad. Serve these tender and crispy chicken pieces with your choice of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. You could also serve them hot off the stove for a more traditional meal experience.

Tips for Success

Ensure proper refrigeration: Always marinate chicken in the refrigerator to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure even penetration of flavors.
Avoid overcrowding: Fry each batch individually or in small batches to maintain uniformity in cooking. Overcrowded oil can lead to greasier results.
Use proper temperatures: Maintain the right oil temperature while frying for best results. Too low, and they won't crisp up; too high, and they'll burn quickly without becoming crispy on the inside.

Cooking Time and Servings

This recipe yields approximately 8 chicken tenders which make it perfect for a family of four as each person can have two pieces. The total preparation time is around 30 minutes (including chilling time) with actual cooking taking about 45-50 minutes.

Conclusion

Chicken tenders are an all-time favorite among food enthusiasts and families alike. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that not only looks appealing but also tastes delicious. The crispy exterior paired with the juicy inside makes these chicken tenders irresistible. Try this recipe at home, enjoy some quality time with your loved ones, and savor every bite of these perfectly prepared chicken tenders.

Chicken tenders are truly a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Whether you're having a casual dinner or preparing for a special occasion, these crispy delights will undoubtedly impress guests and bring smiles to faces!