Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe
Imagine biting into the irresistibly delicious Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, their seasoned, golden brown coating delivering that perfect crunch with every mouthful. The secret to achieving such a delightful texture lies in the combination of savory flavors and a well-balanced marinade, elevating these Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders to a new level of homemade joy. The tender and juicy inside promises to make this dish a beloved family favorite, with every bite bursting with deliciousness.
Whenever I think of Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, I am transported back to cozy family gatherings where the aroma of frying chicken filled the air, sparking anticipation. These moments were alive with laughter and storytelling, while the familiar crunch of chicken tenders served as the comforting background score. It’s a taste that not only satisfies cravings but also wraps you in the warmth of cherished memories.
When you’re in the mood for some delicious homemade chicken, you’ll love whipping up these Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders for a similar satisfying crunch. Another fantastic option that brings a wonderful savory flavor is Creamy Dijon Chicken, which is sure to become a family favorite.
Print
Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 23 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Description
Enjoy these crispy, golden brown buttermilk chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, offering a perfect crunch with a tender and juicy inside.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup corn starch
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Vegetable oil for deep frying (about 2 inches in pan)
Instructions
- Place a wire rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet for draining.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Mix the buttermilk and corn starch until dissolved; add the egg and stir well.
- Add the seasoned flour mixture to the buttermilk mixture and stir until smooth.
- Pat chicken tenders dry and coat them in the batter.
- Using tongs, carefully place coated chicken tenders into hot oil.
- Fry for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked tenders to the wire rack to drain.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to 375°F for optimal crispiness.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Marinate tenders in buttermilk for 2-4 hours for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 8 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, homemade fried chicken, crunchy chicken tenders, family-friendly chicken recipe
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
- Easy to make: This recipe features simple steps with no fancy tools required, making it a breeze to prepare.
- Flexible: Whether you want to adjust the seasonings or try a Southern fried chicken twist, you can easily modify ingredients to suit your taste.
- Great for busy days: With a quick cooking time, these tenders are perfect for families or unexpected guests.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Tools You’ll Need
- Wire rack
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step 1: Preparation for the Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- Buttermilk (¼ cup)
- ¼ cup corn starch
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Vegetable oil for deep frying (about 2 inches in pan)
Step 2: Cooking the Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Place a wire rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet so the chicken can drain after frying. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until hot. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
In another bowl or measuring cup, mix the buttermilk and corn starch until dissolved. Add the egg and stir well to combine. Add the seasoned flour mixture into the buttermilk mixture and stir until a smooth batter forms.
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels if needed. Add them to the batter and stir until each piece is fully coated. Using tongs, carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil. Fry for 6–8 minutes, turning if needed, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked tenders to the prepared wire rack to drain and stay crispy.
Step 3: Assembling and Finishing
Serve your golden, crispy tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. They pair well with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Every Time
- Pat the chicken tenders dry before coating them in batter to ensure a crispy finish.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F to 375°F for perfectly fried tenders.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary, to prevent dropping the oil temperature.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the buttermilk marinade can lead to less flavor and tenderness.
- Not allowing the oil to heat up sufficiently can result in soggy chicken.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
- Try different seasonings such as Italian herbs or curry powder for a flavor twist.
- Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for a gluten-free version.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the batter for a touch of sweetness.
Perfect Sides to Serve with Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
- Freshly baked cornbread for a hearty addition.
- A crisp garden salad to balance the richness.
- Hot fries or sweet potato fries for a classic pairing.
FAQ: Your Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Queries Answered
A marinating time of at least 2-4 hours is recommended for buttermilk marinated chicken tenders to achieve optimal tenderness and flavor. However, for deeper flavor, you can leave them overnight in the refrigerator.
For the best results, use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil when frying your crispy chicken tenders. This ensures a crispy exterior without burning.
To make your crispy fried chicken tenders extra crunchy, ensure the oil is heated to the right temperature—about 350°F to 375°F—and avoid overcrowding the pan during frying.
Yes, you can! Simply follow the same batter preparation, and instead of frying in oil, place them in a 400°F preheated air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
Crispy fried buttermilk chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo to complement their savory taste.
Conclusion: Enjoy Every Bite of Your Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Whether you’re serving them for family-friendly meals or a hearty appetizer, these crispy fried buttermilk chicken tenders offer a delightful balance of flavor and crunch that everyone will love. Their ease of preparation and rich taste make them an irresistible addition to any meal plan.
If you’re on the hunt for more mouthwatering chicken recipes, why not try these Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders for a delicious twist!
We hope you enjoy making and savoring these tenders as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience, comment below with your thoughts, or save this recipe for your next cooking adventure!
