The Ultimate Extra-Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect fried chicken tenders, look no further! This recipe delivers juicy, extra-crispy chicken tenders that will leave your taste buds dancing. Made with simple ingredients, these tenders are perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying snack.
Fried chicken tenders are a beloved comfort food, and this version takes them to the next level. With a few key techniques, you can achieve that coveted golden-brown crust while keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought.
The secret lies in the marination and the double-dipping method, which gives these chicken tenders their signature crunch. Get ready for a delightful cooking experience that results in a dish everyone will love.
Crispy and Juicy Fried Chicken Tenders
These fried chicken tenders are a true delight for any meal.
With a perfect balance of crunch on the outside and tenderness on the inside, they are sure to please a crowd.
The combination of spices and buttermilk creates a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and irresistible, making them a fantastic choice for lunch or dinner.
Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these tenders can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces to complement their rich taste.
From classic barbecue to zesty ranch or honey mustard, the options are endless.
The Marination Magic
One of the key secrets to achieving the perfect fried chicken tenders lies in marination.
Soaking the tenders in buttermilk mixed with spices not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring every bite is a juicy experience.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or preferably overnight.
This step is crucial for that mouthwatering taste and texture that makes homemade fried chicken tenders stand out from the rest.
Creating the Crunchy Coating
The double-dipping method is a game changer for achieving an extra-crispy exterior.
First, coat the marinated tenders in flour, then dip them back into the buttermilk mixture followed by a generous coating of breadcrumbs.
This layering technique forms a thick, crunchy crust that seals in moisture.
Using panko breadcrumbs can elevate the crunch factor even further, giving your tenders that satisfying crisp with every bite.
Frying to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet to the right temperature, ensuring it’s hot enough to fry without absorbing too much oil.
Carefully place the breaded tenders in the skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry until golden brown, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
Using a thermometer can help ensure that each piece reaches the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which is vital for both safety and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Once fried to perfection, drain the tenders on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve them hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
The presentation on a rustic wooden table with a checkered tablecloth adds a charming touch to any dining experience.
Accompany the tenders with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing for a fun and interactive meal.
Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as a comforting weeknight dinner, these fried chicken tenders are sure to become a beloved staple.
Nutritional Information
These delicious chicken tenders are not only tasty but also provide a satisfying meal option.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, they offer a good balance of protein and fat, making them filling without being overly indulgent.
Each serving typically contains about 25 grams of protein, perfect for fueling your day.
Enjoy these crispy fried chicken tenders as part of a wholesome meal that can be shared with family and friends, creating lasting memories around the table.
They’re not just food; they’re a reason to gather, share, and enjoy!
Crispy and Juicy Fried Chicken Tenders
These fried chicken tenders are irresistibly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, they make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or main dish that pairs well with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Breading: Set up a breading station with two bowls – one with flour and the other with breadcrumbs. Take each marinated chicken tender, first dip it in the flour, then in the buttermilk mixture again, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain and Serve: 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.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
