If you’re craving a dish that brings the perfect crunch with a burst of flavorful spices, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe is all about tender chicken soaked in tangy buttermilk, then coated with a seasoned flour mixture that fries up golden and irresistibly crispy. Whether you’re serving these for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, these tenders hit all the right notes for comfort food with a bit of a kick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from tenderizing the chicken to adding layers of flavor and delivering that perfect crispy crust.
- 2 pounds chicken tenders: The star of the dish, these tender strips cook quickly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor while tenderizing the chicken for ultimate juiciness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the crispy coating that makes every bite delightfully crunchy.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses a smoky aroma and beautiful color into the crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of savory flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall seasoning with a slight sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and highlighting every flavor.
- Canola oil, for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, perfect for achieving that crisp exterior without burning.
How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken tenders in a medium bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. This simple step makes a world of difference by breaking down the proteins and infusing each strip with moisture and tangy flavor. Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or better yet, overnight. This slow soak is what transforms the chicken from ordinary to extraordinarily juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating
While your chicken marinates, mix the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This flavorful dry mixture is your golden ticket to a perfectly seasoned crust that complements the juicy chicken inside. Take a moment to enjoy the amazing aroma before frying—it’s the hallmark of good Southern-style frying.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Next, pour about an inch of canola oil into a heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Using a thermometer gives you the perfect temperature to ensure the tenders cook evenly and avoid becoming greasy. Proper oil temperature is crucial because it creates that irresistible crunch and locks in moisture.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off, then roll each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. This coating should stick well thanks to the buttermilk’s slight thickness, ensuring every tender is fully covered and ready for frying. For an extra crunchy exterior, you can double-dip: dip again in buttermilk and then in flour one more time, though that’s optional depending on your crunch craving.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Carefully lower the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan so each piece fries beautifully. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. A quick tip: use tongs to gently turn the tenders and avoid piercing the crust, so you keep the moisture locked in.
Step 6: Drain and Rest
As soon as the tenders are perfectly fried, transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or paper towels to drain excess oil. Letting them rest briefly helps maintain that crisp texture and allows the juices in the chicken to settle. Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful!
How to Serve Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
While these chicken tenders are delicious on their own, adding fresh garnishes takes them up a notch. Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a bright zing that contrasts beautifully with the rich fried coating.
Side Dishes
Pair your Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe with classic sides that balance the meal. Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and a mellow tang, while a serving of mashed potatoes offers comforting creaminess. For a healthier option, try roasted vegetables or a crisp salad with vinaigrette to brighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, serve the tenders on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy ranch, or classic barbecue sauce. Want to take things further? Turn these tenders into sliders with soft buns, lettuce, and pickles for a fun twist everyone will love. No matter how you present them, these crispy delights are always a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe, don’t let them go to waste. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them properly covered retains moisture without sacrificing too much crunch.
Freezing
You can also freeze leftover tenders to enjoy later. Place cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen tenders keep well for up to 2 months and are a fantastic quick meal option when reheated.
Reheating
To bring back their signature crunch, avoid microwaving. Instead, reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes until hot and crisp. This method helps restore their delicious texture and ensures every bite tastes freshly fried.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders. Just make sure the pieces are uniform so they cook evenly and stay juicy when marinated in the buttermilk.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? What’s a substitute?
You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened, then use as you would buttermilk in the recipe.
How spicy is this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe?
The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick without overwhelming heat. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce or omit the cayenne. For extra spice, increase it or add a pinch of chili powder to the flour mix.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the best crispiness, baking is definitely an option if you want a lighter version. Bake coated tenders in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and cooked through.
What dipping sauces pair best with these chicken tenders?
Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy aioli. Mixing things up with a sweet chili sauce or garlic mayonnaise can also bring exciting flavor contrasts.
Final Thoughts
This Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make but feels special every time you serve it. The juicy, tender chicken combined with that irresistible crispy coating creates a harmony of flavors and textures that always hits the spot. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for these tenders again and again!
