Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Crispy fried chicken tenders coated in a seasoned buttermilk batter and fried to golden perfection, making them a family-friendly favorite.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken tenders and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly for a good coating.
- Fry the chicken in batches for 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispy tenders, double dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and flour a second time.
- Use a thermometer to keep oil temperature consistent for even cooking.
- Pairs well with honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 tenders
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: fried chicken tenders, crispy chicken, buttermilk chicken, kid friendly meal