Name: Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders: The Crispiest Recipe Ever!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 275 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot); 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cornstarch; 2 tablespoons paprika; 2 tablespoons garlic powder; 2 tablespoons onion powder; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); 4-6 cups vegetable oil, for frying (or peanut oil)

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders: Crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible – are you ready to experience fried chicken perfection? Forget everything you thought you knew about chicken tenders because this recipe elevates the humble finger food to a gourmet delight. These aren't your average, run-of-the-mill tenders; we're talking about a symphony of textures and flavors that will have your taste buds singing!

Fried chicken, in its various forms, has a rich history, particularly in the American South, where it evolved from simple home cooking to a culinary art form. The use of buttermilk, a byproduct of butter churning, adds a tangy tenderness that's been cherished for generations. It's a technique passed down through families, a secret ingredient that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. And now, I'm sharing that secret with you!

What makes Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders so universally loved? It's the perfect combination of a crunchy, golden-brown exterior and a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth interior. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken remains incredibly moist, while the seasoned breading delivers that satisfying crunch we all crave. Plus, they're incredibly convenient! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun party appetizer, or even a picnic in the park. Get ready to make the best fried chicken tenders you've ever tasted!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips
2 cups buttermilk
2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Breading:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For Frying:
4-6 cups vegetable oil, for frying (or peanut oil)

Marinating the Chicken

Okay, let's get started! The key to super tender and flavorful fried chicken tenders is a good marinade. This buttermilk marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a tangy flavor that complements the crispy breading perfectly. Trust me, don't skip this step!

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until it's well combined.
Add the chicken strips to the buttermilk mixture, making sure each piece is fully submerged. This is important for even marinating.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be. I usually aim for at least 8 hours when I have the time.

Preparing the Breading

While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the breading. This is where we'll build up that crispy, flavorful crust that everyone loves. The combination of flour, cornstarch, and spices creates a texture that's both crunchy and light.

In a large, shallow dish (like a baking dish or a wide bowl), combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This will guarantee that each chicken tender is coated with the same amount of flavor.

Frying the Chicken Tenders

Now for the fun part – frying! This is where the magic happens, and those marinated chicken strips transform into golden-brown, crispy perfection. It's important to maintain the correct oil temperature for even cooking and to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.

Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. You'll need enough oil to fully submerge the chicken tenders.
Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for crispy, evenly cooked chicken. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it's cooked through. If it's too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
While the oil is heating, remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. You don't need to pat them completely dry, but you don't want them dripping wet either.
Working in batches (don't overcrowd the pot!), dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, making sure it's completely coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere. Then, shake off any excess flour. This ensures a nice, even coating.
Carefully lower the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, one at a time. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Remove the fried chicken tenders from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy.
Repeat the breading and frying process with the remaining chicken tenders, making sure to maintain the oil temperature. You might need to adjust the heat as you go to keep the oil at the optimal temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These buttermilk fried chicken tenders are delicious on their own, but they're even better with your favorite dipping sauces! Here are a few of my go-to options:

Honey mustard
Ranch dressing
Barbecue sauce
Buffalo sauce
Sweet chili sauce

You can also serve them as part of a meal with sides like:

Coleslaw
French fries
Mashed potatoes
Corn on the cob
Mac and cheese

Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Tenders

Don't overcrowd the pot: Frying too many chicken tenders at once will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy chicken. Work in batches to maintain the heat.
Use a thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is essential for maintaining the correct oil temperature. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn't burn.
Don't skip the marinade: The buttermilk marinade is key to tender and flavorful chicken. Marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. This will help keep it crispy.
Season generously: Don't be afraid to season the breading and marinade generously. This is where the flavor comes from!

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time in a few different ways:

Marinate the chicken: The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Prepare the breading: The breading mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Fry and reheat: You can fry the chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or air fryer. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Fried Chicken Tenders: Add more cayenne pepper to the breading for extra heat. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or some red pepper flakes.
Honey Garlic Fried Chicken Tenders: After frying, toss the chicken tenders in a honey garlic sauce. To make the sauce, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a saucepan and simmer until thickened.
Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken Tenders: Add lemon pepper seasoning to the breading for a zesty twist.
Parmesan Fried Chicken Tenders: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breading for a cheesy flavor.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders! It's a family favorite in my house, and I'm sure it will be a hit with your family too. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and sauces to create your own unique version. Happy frying!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are so much more than just a quick snack; they're a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, juicy chicken with a tangy twist. The buttermilk marinade works wonders, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with a subtle, irresistible flavor that you just won't find anywhere else. The perfectly seasoned breading guarantees a satisfying crunch with every single bite. But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! While these tenders are absolutely divine on their own, dipped in your favorite sauce (honey mustard, BBQ, or even a spicy mayo are all fantastic choices!), the possibilities are truly endless. Think about serving them as part of a fun and casual dinner. Imagine a platter piled high with these golden-brown beauties alongside crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, and maybe even some sweet corn on the cob. It's the perfect comfort food feast for a family gathering or a relaxed get-together with friends. Or, get creative and use these Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders as the star ingredient in other dishes. Slice them up and toss them into a vibrant salad for a protein-packed lunch. Add them to a wrap with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a quick and easy meal on the go. You could even use them to create a delicious chicken parmesan sandwich – just top them with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese on a toasted bun. For a fun variation, try experimenting with different spices in the breading. A pinch of cayenne pepper will add a touch of heat, while a dash of smoked paprika will give them a smoky flavor. You could also try adding some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more savory profile. Don't be afraid to get creative and customize the recipe to your own taste preferences! Another great serving suggestion is to pair these tenders with some homemade waffles for a classic chicken and waffles experience. Drizzle everything with maple syrup and a sprinkle of hot sauce for the perfect sweet and savory combination. Trust me, it's a game-changer! I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it just as much as I do. The key is to follow the instructions carefully, especially when it comes to the marinating time and the temperature of the oil. A little patience and attention to detail will reward you with the most incredibly delicious and satisfying chicken tenders you've ever tasted. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, don't forget to have fun in the kitchen! I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders. Once you've given it a go, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I'd love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you served them. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating and sharing delicious recipes that you'll love. Happy cooking!