Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you have a craving for juicy, flavorful bites with a perfectly crunchy coating, this Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders recipe is your new go-to. Infused with the tangy richness of buttermilk and a blend of spices, these tenders deliver an irresistible crunch on the outside while staying tender and moist inside. Whether for a simple dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders make every meal feel like a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate crunch factor: The double coating technique creates a golden, crispy crust that satisfies every bite.
• Juicy center: Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor.
• Easy to customize: The seasoning can be tweaked to fit your preferred spice level or flavor profile.
• Quick and simple: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-friendly favorite: These tenders appeal to everyone, making them a family-approved meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that unmistakable golden-brown finish. The balance between spices and acidity in the marinade ensures your Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders come out perfectly every time.

• Chicken tenders: Fresh, high-quality breast tenders ensure tenderness and even cooking.
• Buttermilk: The key to tender, juicy meat and a tangy base for the marinade.
• All-purpose flour: Provides the essential dry coating for a crispy crust.
• Seasoning blend: A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for rich flavor.
• Baking powder: Adds extra crispiness to the coating.
• Vegetable oil or peanut oil: Perfect for frying due to high smoke points and neutral flavor.

Variations for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

One of the joys of this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders recipe is how easy it is to adapt based on what you have in your pantry, dietary needs, or personal tastes. Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for extra heat.
• Gluten-free option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Herb-infused coating: Mix in dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour for a fresh herbal note.
• Air fryer friendly: Skip the deep frying and cook in an air fryer for a healthier alternative.
• Buttermilk substitute: Use plain yogurt thinned with milk if buttermilk is not available.

How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl with the buttermilk, salt, and a few spices like paprika and garlic powder. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This step is essential to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor deep inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and your seasoning blend. The baking powder helps to create an ultra-crispy crust, while the spices ensure each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Tenders

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tender thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to form an even coating. For extra crunch, double-dip the tenders by returning them to the buttermilk briefly and then coating again in flour.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the tenders in batches without crowding the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy, hot Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders immediately, paired with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.

Pro Tips for Making Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

• Marinate longer: For the best tenderness and flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Maintain oil temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil steady around 350°F for even cooking and a crispy crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature and soggy tenders.
• Use a wire rack: Drain fried tenders on a rack instead of paper towels to keep the crust crispy.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and spices in both marinade and coating for well-rounded flavor.

How to Serve Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika add not just color but a fresh layer of flavor that brightens the tenders beautifully.

Side Dishes

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with crisp coleslaw, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a vibrant corn salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving tenders in slider buns with pickles and sauce for a fun twist, or alongside a colorful dipping sauce sampler for a party-ready presentation that will impress guests instantly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently to preserve their crispy texture.

Freezing

Place uncooked, coated tenders on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This method prevents sticking and lets you enjoy freshly fried tenders anytime.

Reheating

Reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a wire rack for 10-12 minutes to revive their crispiness without drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Regular milk won’t tenderize and flavor the chicken the same way buttermilk does, but you can mix milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick substitute.

What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are ideal because they handle high heat without burning or imparting unwanted flavors.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

Chicken tenders are cooked when internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. The golden crust is also a good visual clue.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative; bake on a wire rack at 400°F (205°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, to get crispy tenders.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, and ensure the seasoning mix does not contain any gluten ingredients.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and juicy tenderness of homemade Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little comfort and joy to your kitchen, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that anyone can master. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining friends, these crispy delights are sure to be a hit—so grab your apron and give this recipe a try today!

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