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Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe

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3.8 from 12 reviews

This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders recipe features tender strips of chicken marinated in a flavorful buttermilk blend, coated in a seasoned panko and flour mixture, then fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these chicken tenders make a delicious snack or meal served with your favorite dipping sauces.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Marinade

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Chicken

  • 2 lbs chicken tenderloins

Breading

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (measured then sifted)
  • 1 cup panko crumbs
  • 1¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • 1½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1½ tsp parsley flakes
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp cornstarch

For Frying

  • Oil for frying (enough to fill 3 inches in a deep skillet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well to dissolve the salt completely.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins into the buttermilk marinade, making sure each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
  3. Mix the breading: In a deep dish, thoroughly combine the sifted all-purpose flour, panko crumbs, salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, parsley flakes, paprika, and cornstarch to create the seasoned breading mixture.
  4. Coat the chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the marinade one at a time, letting excess buttermilk drip off. Generously dredge each piece in the breading mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating well. Set coated tenders aside on a separate plate.
  5. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet to reach about 3 inches in depth. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a frying thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
  6. Fry the chicken tenders: Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, doing so in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Drain and rest: Remove the fried tenders with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to cool and drain excess oil. This prevents sogginess and maintains crispiness.
  8. Repeat frying: Continue frying the remaining tenders in batches following the same process until all are cooked.
  9. Serve: Plate the crispy chicken tenders and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as homemade Chick-fil-A style sauce or ranch dressing.
  10. Enjoy: Dive into these deliciously crispy, juicy chicken tenders with family or friends for a satisfying meal or snack.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for optimal crispiness and to avoid greasy chicken.
  • Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying; it will reduce oil temperature and result in soggy coating.
  • Letting the tenders rest on a wire rack helps maintain their crispy texture.
  • If desired, serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/crispy-buttermilk-chicken-tenders-recipe/