Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Introduction
Few dishes capture the heart of comfort food lovers quite like a Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe. Golden, crunchy, and juicy, chicken tenders are a classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re preparing them for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a game-day snack, these tenders are always a hit.
What makes this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe so irresistible is the perfect balance between the well-seasoned, crunchy coating and the tender, juicy chicken inside. The recipe is simple enough for beginners yet flavorful and satisfying enough to impress even seasoned cooks. It takes a familiar favorite—fried chicken—and transforms it into a dish that’s easy to prepare, easy to serve, and impossible to resist.
In this article, we’ll explore why this recipe works, what you’ll need, a step-by-step guide on how to make this recipe, essential tips and tricks for success, and even some creative serving suggestions. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make the perfect batch of crispy, golden chicken tenders every single time.
Why This Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe Works
There are countless fried chicken recipes out there, but this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe stands out because of its well-thought-out method and balanced seasoning. Here’s why it works so well:
Buttermilk Marinade for Juiciness
The chicken strips are soaked in buttermilk (or yogurt thinned with milk) before coating and frying. This step tenderizes the meat and infuses it with subtle tanginess, ensuring the tenders remain moist and flavorful after frying.
The Double-Coating Technique
The combination of flour, cornstarch, and egg creates a light yet crunchy crust. Cornstarch helps make the coating extra crisp, while eggs bind the layers beautifully.
Seasoning That Pops
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper provide a savory, slightly smoky flavor that elevates this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe beyond plain fried chicken.
Balanced Crisp and Tender Texture
Baking powder in the flour mixture adds just a touch of aeration, making the coating lighter without compromising crunch.
Versatility
These tenders are delicious on their own, but they’re also perfect for dipping in sauces, stuffing into wraps, or serving with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
This balance of technique and flavor makes the Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe nearly foolproof, ensuring results that are consistently satisfying.
What You’ll Need For This Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
To achieve that golden crunch and juicy bite, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
1 kg boneless chicken breast, cut into strips – The base of the recipe. Chicken breast works well because it cooks quickly and evenly, but you can also use tenderloins.
2 cups buttermilk (or plain yogurt thinned with milk) – For marinating and tenderizing the chicken.
2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the bulk of the coating.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps make the coating light and airy.
2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds depth and savory notes.
2 teaspoons onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor balance.
2 teaspoons smoked paprika – Brings smokiness and color to the coating.
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional) – For a touch of spice.
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for flavor.
1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and complexity.
2 eggs, beaten – Helps the coating stick.
3 tablespoons cornstarch – Gives the coating its signature crisp.
Vegetable oil for frying – Neutral oil with a high smoke point ensures golden, crispy results.
How To Make This Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Making the perfect Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s the method broken down:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken strips in a large bowl.
Pour the buttermilk (or yogurt mixture) over the chicken.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
Dip each strip into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally back into the flour mixture. This double-dip method ensures maximum crispiness.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F).
Test the oil by dropping in a small pinch of flour—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken strips into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding the pan.
Fry for 5–7 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove with tongs and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Enjoy your Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe straight from the fryer while still hot and crunchy.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
To truly master this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe, here are some tips and tricks:
Don’t Skip the Marinade – The buttermilk soak makes all the difference in keeping the chicken juicy.
Use a Wire Rack – Instead of just paper towels, place the fried tenders on a wire rack. This prevents soggy bottoms and keeps the coating crisp.
Maintain Oil Temperature – Use a thermometer if possible. If the oil is too hot, the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too cool, and the tenders absorb oil and turn greasy.
Season at Every Stage – Lightly season the flour mixture and even the buttermilk marinade for layers of flavor.
Batch Frying – Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for even cooking.
Make Ahead Tip – You can coat the chicken strips and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying.
Reheating – To keep them crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer, not the microwave.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Once you’ve made this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe, serving it is half the fun. These tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
Classic Style – Serve with fries, coleslaw, and your favorite dipping sauces.
Family Dinner – Pair with mashed potatoes, gravy, and roasted vegetables.
Kid-Friendly Meal – Offer with ketchup or honey mustard and a side of mac and cheese.
Party Platter – Arrange on a platter with a variety of dips like ranch, buffalo, and BBQ.
Sandwich or Wrap – Tuck into a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo, or wrap in a tortilla with cheese and veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Dipping Sauces: Honey mustard, spicy mayo, ranch, buffalo sauce, or barbecue sauce.
Side Dishes: Corn on the cob, potato wedges, garden salad, or baked beans.
Drinks: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer for adults.
Creative Twist: Chop the tenders and add to salads, pasta, or rice bowls for a quick meal upgrade.
Time Required for Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Marinating Time: 1–8 hours (depending on preference)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 40 minutes (including marinating)
Conclusion
The Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s perfect for all occasions. With its juicy, marinated chicken, well-seasoned coating, and crunchy texture, it delivers flavor and satisfaction in every bite. By following the steps and tips outlined above, you can master this recipe and enjoy perfectly crispy chicken tenders every single time.
So whether you’re making a quick family dinner, preparing snacks for a party, or simply craving something indulgent, keep this Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe in your back pocket. It’s a dish you’ll return to again and again, and one that will always leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
