If you’re craving crispy, golden chicken tenders but don’t want to spend extra cash or time heading to a restaurant, this homemade recipe is perfect for you! Quick, easy, and customizable, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds of chicken tenders
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of buttermilk, plus 2 tablespoons
- 1–1½ cups of frying oil (depending on skillet size)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Hot sauce for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Trim the chicken tenders if desired, removing the white strip along the side. This step is optional but can improve the texture.
Step 2: Soak in Buttermilk
Pour ½ cup of buttermilk into a bowl and submerge the chicken tenders. Let them sit for a few minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare the Skillet
Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in enough oil to create a ½-inch layer. The amount of oil may vary depending on the size of your skillet.
Step 4: Prepare the Flour Mixture
Place the flour in a large bowl and mix in about 2 tablespoons of buttermilk. Stir well until small clumps form — these will create the crispy coating on the tenders.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and coat them evenly in the flour mixture.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
When the oil is hot, place the coated tenders into the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper (or your preferred seasonings) as they cook.
Fry the chicken until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer to check).
Step 7: Drain Excess Oil
Transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tenders:
- Season to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite spices or blends, such as a steakhouse seasoning or paprika, for extra flavor.
- Crispy Secrets: Adding a touch of buttermilk to the flour mixture ensures a crunchy coating.
- Serving Suggestions: These tenders pair wonderfully with coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, or crispy fries straight from the air fryer.
Enjoy!
Serve your homemade chicken tenders hot and crispy, with your favorite dipping sauces on the side. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a quick snack, this recipe proves that homemade is always better!
