There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy, golden brown chicken tender. And when that chicken tender is marinated in rich, tangy buttermilk and seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices? It’s pure comfort food heaven. This Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders recipe is not just another fried chicken dish it’s a recipe that takes this classic comfort food to the next level. Let’s dive into how you can make these mouthwatering tenders right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The perfect blend of seasonings and a buttermilk marinade make these tenders exceptionally tasty.
- Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required.
- Perfect for Dipping: Pair with your favorite sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy ketchup.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Marinade:
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Breading:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 heaping teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons buttermilk
Frying:
- 3–4 cups vegetable oil
How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken tenderloins in a large zip-top bag. Add buttermilk, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Seal the bag tightly, then massage to coat the chicken evenly. Place the bag in a bowl (to prevent leaks) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This marinating process infuses the chicken with flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
While the chicken marinates, prepare the breading. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the buttermilk and stir with a fork to create small clumps. These clumps will add extra crunch to the chicken tenders.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Press each tender into the breading mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated. Arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Set another baking sheet nearby, lined with a few layers of paper towels. Pour vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet, filling it about ¾ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread. It should sizzle immediately.
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the breaded tenders in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F. Transfer the fried tenders to the prepared baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are best served fresh and hot. Here are some tasty dipping sauce ideas:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Buffalo sauce
- Spicy ketchup
- BBQ sauce
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Can You Freeze Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders?
Yes! Allow the fried chicken tenders to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 15-18 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Why Buttermilk?
Buttermilk is a game-changer in fried chicken recipes. Its slight acidity helps tenderize the meat while adding a subtle tangy flavor. Additionally, the thick texture helps the breading stick better, resulting in a beautifully crispy coating.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra spicy version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Air Fryer Option: Want a healthier alternative? Cook the breaded tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
These Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are a perfect blend of crispy coating and juicy, flavorful meat. With a simple marinade and easy breading process, you can create restaurant-quality tenders right at home. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear in minutes. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, game day snack, or party appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
