Crispy and Flavorful Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe: A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about crispy, tender chicken. And when it comes to making a meal that pleases everyone, Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders stand out as a clear favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or preparing for a casual dinner, these tender, crispy, and flavorful chicken strips are the perfect choice.

This recipe takes your typical fried chicken tenders to the next level by marinating the chicken in buttermilk, ensuring an incredibly tender texture while providing a flavorful, crispy coating on the outside. If you’re craving that perfect blend of juicy inside with a crunchy outside, Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are your answer.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into the recipe, the origin of buttermilk fried chicken tenders, step-by-step directions, variations, and some frequently asked questions. We’ve made sure this recipe is not only easy to follow but also optimized for both flavor and crispiness. Ready to make the best chicken tenders of your life? Let’s get started!

What Are Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders?

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are chicken strips marinated in buttermilk and seasoned to perfection, then coated in a flavorful breading and deep-fried until golden brown. The use of buttermilk in the marinade serves two purposes: it tenderizes the chicken and imparts a subtle tang that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the breading. This results in a juicy, flavorful interior and an extra-crispy exterior.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the seasoned breading that coats the chicken tenders. It’s packed with a delicious mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If you want a little extra kick, you can even add a bit of hot sauce to the marinade. These chicken tenders are a great dish to serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Origin of Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

While fried chicken is a dish with deep Southern roots in the United States, the use of buttermilk for marinating chicken can be traced back to early cooking traditions. Buttermilk, a byproduct of churning butter, was widely used in Southern kitchens due to its tangy flavor and tenderizing properties. Over time, the recipe evolved, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders became a popular variation of the traditional fried chicken.

Chicken tenders themselves have become a beloved comfort food in many cultures. Their popularity has soared in recent decades, partly due to their convenience and versatility. While originally seen as a simple fried chicken cutlet, Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders have become a modern classic loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients and Quantities for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

To make these mouthwatering Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken tenders
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 6 tbsp buttermilk (for the breading)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. You can also adjust the seasonings to your personal taste. The hot sauce in the marinade is optional, but it provides a nice kick, complementing the spices in the breading.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation of these crispy and delicious chicken tenders. Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have a plate of crispy, flavorful chicken tenders ready in no time!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken tenders in a bowl or plastic bag. Pour in the 2 cups of buttermilk and the optional 2 tbsp of hot sauce (if you want an extra flavor kick). Toss the chicken tenders to coat them completely with the buttermilk mixture.

Refrigerate the chicken tenders for at least 3-4 hours, or up to 24 hours if you want maximum tenderness. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the breading. In a large bowl, mix together the following dry ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Once the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, add 6 tbsp of buttermilk and stir with a fork. The buttermilk will create small clumps in the flour mixture, which is key to getting that crispy texture on your chicken tenders.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

After the chicken has marinated, remove the tenders from the buttermilk mixture. Take each tender and coat it in the prepared flour mixture. Press down gently to make sure the breading sticks and creates a thick, even coating. For an extra crispy layer, you can double coat the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture.

Step 4: Let the Breading Set

Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the oil. This step ensures that the breading sets properly and doesn’t fall off while frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

Fill a large, deep pan with vegetable oil. You want the oil to be about 1.5 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a thermometer to make sure the temperature is just right—too low and your chicken will absorb too much oil, too high and it may burn on the outside before cooking through.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, it’s time to fry the tenders. Carefully lower the breaded chicken tenders into the oil in small batches. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once the chicken tenders are golden brown, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with a little salt, and serve while hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Variations of Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

While the classic recipe for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders is already amazing, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste. Here are a few options:

1. Spicy Chicken Tenders

If you want to give your chicken tenders a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper in the breading mixture. You can also add more hot sauce to the marinade for an extra spicy bite.

2. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

For a delicious twist, toss the fried chicken tenders in melted butter, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese right after frying. This will give them an amazing savory flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.

4. Air Fried Chicken Tenders

For a healthier version, try air frying your breaded chicken tenders. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken tenders for this recipe to ensure the best texture. However, you can use frozen tenders if necessary—just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and breading.

2. How can I make the chicken tenders crispier?

To make the chicken tenders extra crispy, let the breaded tenders rest for a few minutes before frying. You can also double-coat the chicken for an even crispier coating.

3. Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While the texture may not be as crispy as frying, it’s still a healthier alternative.

4. Can I store leftovers?

Yes, you can store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, party, or just because you’re craving some comfort food, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

By following this easy-to-understand recipe, you can create restaurant-quality chicken tenders right in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and dipping sauces to make this meal your own. The combination of buttermilk, spices, and the crispy coating will leave you craving more.

So, grab your ingredients, get ready to fry, and enjoy these crispy and juicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders tonight!

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