Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders Delight

If you crave crunchy, juicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders cooked to golden perfection, then this recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s an easy recipe for a delicious, crispy homemade treat that brings together tender chicken soaked in tangy buttermilk and a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making these tenders the ultimate snack, lunch, or dinner option. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders deliver comfort and satisfaction every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together effortlessly for amazing flavor.
• Crispy Texture: The buttermilk soak creates a tender inside, while the seasoned breading gives a satisfyingly crunchy outside.
• Quick Prep Time: From soaking to frying, you’ll have golden tenders ready in under an hour.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for kids and adults alike, great for meals or parties.
• Highly Customizable: Easy to tweak seasoning and cooking methods to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All it takes are a few simple, but essential ingredients to create these irresistible Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s building flavor, ensuring juiciness, or delivering that golden crunch you’ll love.

• Chicken Tenders: Use fresh, high-quality chicken tenders or strips for the best tender texture.
• Buttermilk: Provides a tangy soak that tenderizes the chicken and adds moisture.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the crispy coating that fries up beautifully golden.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne add depth and a tasty kick.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying, it creates that irresistible crispy crust without overpowering flavor.
• Optional Cornstarch: Mix with flour for extra crunch in the coating layer.

Variations for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce to the buttermilk soak or extra cayenne in the flour mixture for heat lovers.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and double-check your seasonings.
• Herb-Infused: Mix dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the flour for an herby flair.
• Oven-Baked Version: Bake the tenders at 425°F for a lighter and equally crispy option.
• Panko Crust: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for an extra crispy, airy texture.

How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Soak the Chicken

Begin by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the milk to season as the chicken soaks. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours to maximize tenderness and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch (if using), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed through the flour.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the tenders from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off, then carefully coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. For extra crispy tenders, press the coating onto the chicken firmly. Place coated tenders on a wire rack and let rest for 10-15 minutes to help the crust stick better when frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of about 1–2 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying temperature. Use a thermometer for accuracy to avoid greasy or undercooked tenders.

Step 5: Fry the Tenders

Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden and the internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Pro Tips for Making Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

• Double Dredge: For extra crunch, dip tenders back into the buttermilk then flour again before frying.
• Rest Before Frying: Letting coated tenders rest helps the batter adhere and prevents falling off during cooking.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at a steady 350°F to ensure crispy outsides without greasy insides.
• Use a Thermometer: Check chicken temperature to avoid drying out your tenders by overcooking.
• Drain Immediately: Use a wire rack instead of paper towels for draining to keep coating crispier longer.

How to Serve Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and subtle freshness. Serve with lemon wedges for a little zesty brightness that complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, crispy fries, or a fresh garden salad. For comfort food vibes, mashed potatoes or mac and cheese are never a bad choice.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving tenders inside soft slider buns with pickles and mayo for a fun twist. Or, stack them atop a bed of greens with your favorite dipping sauces for a shareable platter that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice chicken breast into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking and follow the same soaking and frying process.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries—you can make a simple substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How to make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for frying, and check that all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying?

Yes. Bake coated tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

What dipping sauces go best with these tenders?

Great options include honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or spicy sriracha mayo for an extra flavor kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and juicy flavor of perfectly cooked Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether for a casual weeknight or a special gathering. Give it a try and enjoy that wonderful homemade crispiness that keeps everyone coming back for more!

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