Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders are golden, crunchy strips of chicken that are juicy on the inside and packed with flavor on the outside. A classic comfort food, perfect for dipping and serving with sides like fries or coleslaw.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Deep-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
- In a medium bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken tenders, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat.
- Fry the tenders in batches for 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, turning once halfway.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.
Notes
- Double coat for an extra crunchy texture: dip in buttermilk again and re-dredge in flour.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Best served immediately but can be reheated in the oven for crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, fried chicken, buttermilk chicken, chicken fingers, deep fried chicken