👨‍🍳 Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe | Quick & Easy

by | Jun 28, 2024 | Chicken Recipes, Recipes

Are you ready to master an easy chicken tenders recipe that’s both crispy and full of flavor? With just 55 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up homemade chicken tenders that will rival any restaurant version. Whether you’re feeding a family of five or planning a fun dinner for friends, this recipe offers simplicity without compromising on taste.

With over 38.7K shares, this recipe combines the perfect blend of spices, flour, and the right frying technique to achieve golden, crunchy perfection. Curious about how to make chicken tenders that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside? Dive into the details below!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Prep and cook time totals just 55 minutes.
  • Recipe serves 5 with 1-2 pounds of chicken tenders.
  • Uses simple ingredients: flour, egg, and common spices.
  • Recommended oil for frying: canola or peanut oil.
  • Nutritional estimate per serving: 253 calories, 24g protein.

Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Chicken Tenders

Creating the best chicken tenders involves a variety of ingredients, spices, and cooking practices to ensure they are delicious, crispy, and flavorful. This section will highlight the essential components required for crafting the perfect crispy breaded chicken tenders.

Essential Spices and Seasonings

The delicious chicken tenders recipe starts with the perfect blend of spices and seasonings. The flour mixture typically includes:

  • 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika

These spices combine to create a flavorful coating that helps achieve crispy breaded chicken tenders every time. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

For the best chicken tenders, you can either use 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of chicken tenders or 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into 1-inch thick strips. Chicken breasts are often preferred over actual chicken tenderloins due to the tendons present in the latter, which can make them harder to eat. Marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for 8-24 hours helps to tenderize the meat, keeping them moist and flavorful.

Recommended Oils for Frying

Frying the chicken tenders at the right temperature and using the right type of oil significantly impacts the final taste and texture. Here’s a table of recommended oils for frying:

Oil Type Smoke Point (°F) Recommended Usage
Canola Oil 400°F Great for high-temperature frying
Vegetable Oil 450°F Neutral taste, high smoke point
Corn Oil 450°F Mild flavor, suitable for deep frying
Avocado Oil 520°F Natural, healthy choice for frying

Maintaining an oil temperature of around 365-375 degrees Fahrenheit is crucial for achieving the crispy, golden perfection that defines the best chicken tenders. Frying each batch for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown ensures they are cooked thoroughly and evenly.

Preparing Your Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step

Creating the best chicken tenders recipe requires careful attention to detail. Follow this comprehensive tutorial to master the art of making crispy chicken tenders at home.

Marinating Your Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Marinating your chicken tenders is essential for infusing maximum flavor and ensuring tenderness. Use buttermilk or a blend of milk and eggs, combined with your favorite spices, to allow the chicken to soak up all the flavorful goodness. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 1 hour. This step is critical in setting the foundation for the best chicken tenders recipe.

The Importance of Proper Breading Techniques

Proper breading is the key to achieving crispy chicken tenders. Start by coating the marinated chicken in seasoned flour. Use a mixture of 1/4 cup mayo, 2 TBSP ketchup, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a couple of dashes of salt & pepper for the egg wash. This egg mixture ensures the breading sticks well.

Dip the chicken tenders into the egg mixture, then back into the flour for a double coat. This method locks in the moisture and guarantees a crispy, golden crust. Here’s a quick summary:

  1. Coat chicken in seasoned flour.
  2. Dip in egg mixture (3 egg whites per dish).
  3. Coat again with flour.

Following these steps ensures the chicken remains juicy inside while achieving a perfectly crisp exterior. These techniques are vital for achieving the best chicken tenders recipe and satisfying results every time.

How to Achieve Crispy, Golden Perfection

Achieving the perfect crispy, golden fried chicken tenders can be an art form. With the right techniques, you can ensure succulent, juicy meat encased in a flavorful, crunchy batter. Our homemade chicken tendres are rated an impressive 4.80 out of 30 votes for their delicious, crowd-pleasing quality.

fried chicken tenders recipe

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Texture

Key to producing the crispiest chicken tenders is the use of a combination of flour and potato starch. This mix ensures your coating remains ultra-crispy even after cooling. Additionally, brining the chicken with a ratio of 3-4 tablespoons of salt per 8 cups of water enhances tenderness.

  • Ensure the oil temperature is maintained between 350°-375°F during frying for the best texture.
  • Pat the chicken dry before applying the batter to stop the crispy skin from detaching.
  • Consider double-frying the chicken to attain an even crunchier surface.
  • Use white vinegar in the batter for an additional layer of flavor and crunch.
  • After frying, let tenders rest for a few moments, allowing the juices to settle and the crust to firm up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcrowding the pan: This will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches of 5-6 tenders to keep the oil hot.
  2. Skipping the dry mix process: Not moistening the dry ingredients can prevent achieving a textured coating. Mix with brine or water before frying.
  3. Neglecting oil temperature: Invest in a thermometer or use a wooden spoon to test; bubbles around the wood indicate the right temperature.
  4. Incorrect batter preparation: Combine pre-mixed dry ingredients with water to create a wet batter for proper coating adherence.

By adhering to these tips on how to make chicken tenders, you can replicate our highly-rated fried chicken tenders recipe in your kitchen. The image below displays the visually appetizing result you’ll achieve.

Cooking Methods: Pan-Frying vs Deep-Frying

The delicious journey to creating the perfect crispy fried chicken tenders can take two distinct paths: pan-frying or deep-frying. Each method has its own unique perks, and choosing between them depends largely on personal preferences and available kitchen equipment.

Pan-frying involves cooking your chicken tenders in a moderate amount of non-GMO canola oil, often around 1 cup. This method ensures that the chicken is only partially submerged in oil over medium to high heat. Pan-frying typically requires a cooking time of 7-8 minutes per strip, turning halfway to ensure even cooking and achieving an internal temperature of 160°F. Using a cast-iron skillet can enhance the result, giving your crispy fried chicken tenders a golden-brown exterior while maintaining a juicy interior.

On the other hand, deep-frying completely submerges the chicken tenders in hot oil, usually heated between 350-375°F (175-190°C). This method is known for creating an even crispier exterior. Foods that are commonly deep-fried include chicken, fish, French fries, onion rings, and battered vegetables. While the high temperatures help in achieving a moist interior, deep-frying often uses more oil and might be less appealing for the health-conscious cook.

Both methods are efficient, but the easy chicken tenders recipe often leans towards pan-frying due to its health benefits. Pan-fried chicken tenders are not only lighter but allow more control over the cooking process. Moreover, the recipe suggests optional seasonings and dips for those who prefer to customize their crispy fried chicken tenders according to their tastes.

Aspect Pan-Frying Deep-Frying
Oil Used 1 cup of non-GMO canola oil Completely submerged
Cooking Time 7-8 minutes Varies based on item size
Health Factor Healthier alternative Higher calorie intake
Crunchiness Golden-brown, lighter crust Uniformly crispy shell
Control More controlled cooking process Less control
Foods Cooked Chicken, pork chops, fish, veggies Chicken, fish, fries, onion rings

Ultimately, both cooking methods have their advantages, and the choice boils down to what suits your easy chicken tenders recipe and personal preferences the best.

Choosing the Best Oil for Frying

Selecting the right oil is essential when aiming to achieve the best chicken tenders recipe. The type of oil used can greatly influence the flavor and crispiness of your crispy breaded chicken tenders. Let’s explore the benefits of two popular options—Canola Oil and Peanut Oil—and provide essential safety tips for handling hot oil.

Canola Oil vs Peanut Oil

When it comes to frying crispy breaded chicken tenders, both Canola Oil and Peanut Oil offer distinct advantages:

Oil Type Smoke Point (°F) Benefits
Canola Oil 400 Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, low in saturated fats, mild flavor.
Peanut Oil 450 Prevents flavor transfer, high smoke point, suitable for high-temperature frying.
Lard 370 Rich flavor, not as healthy compared to plant-based oils.
Vegetable Shortening 360 Solid at room temperature, stable for deep frying.
Sunflower Oil 450 High in Vitamin E, adds nutritional value while frying.

Canola Oil is a versatile choice, offering a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the spices and seasonings in your chicken tenders. Its high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also make it a healthier frying option. On the other hand, Peanut Oil stands out due to its high smoke point of 450°F, making it ideal for the consistent, high-temperature frying required to achieve perfect crispiness. Additionally, Peanut Oil prevents flavor transfer, ensuring that each batch of chicken tenders retains its unique taste profile.

Safety Tips for Handling Hot Oil

Ensuring safety while frying is paramount. Here are some critical tips for managing hot oil safely:

  • Fill the pan correctly: Never fill your frying pan more than halfway with oil to prevent overflow and potential fires.
  • Add chicken carefully: Carefully add chicken tenders to the hot oil to prevent splatters that can cause burns.
  • Monitor the temperature: Using a thermometer, ensure the oil temperature remains between the recommended range of 350°F to 375°F.
  • Avoid water: Ensure no water comes into contact with the hot oil as it can cause dangerous splattering.

The Secret to Perfectly Seasoned Chicken

Creating a delicious chicken tenders recipe relies heavily on mastering the art of seasoning. The right combination of spices and marinades can elevate your homemade chicken tenders to restaurant-quality.

Spice Blends for Extra Flavor

The foundation of a perfectly seasoned chicken is a well-crafted spice blend. Popular choices include Montreal Steak Seasoning, paprika, garlic, and onion powder. These seasonings not only add depth but also ensure a balanced flavor profile. Incorporating such spices into your breading mixture guarantees a flavorful crust on your chicken tenders.

Using Buttermilk and Other Marinades

Marinating your chicken tenders can dramatically enhance their taste and tenderness. A classic buttermilk marinade, enriched with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt, is highly recommended. Studies show that marinating for at least 4 hours—or up to 24 hours—ensures optimal flavor infusion. The combination of buttermilk, hot sauce, and seasoned salt in the wet batter creates a light, crunchy texture for your delicious chicken tenders recipe.

In summary, blending spices skillfully and utilizing buttermilk marinades are key practices for achieving a mouthwatering homemade chicken tenders experience.

Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe Variations

Exploring the diverse fried chicken tenders recipe variations can bring a delightful twist to your culinary experience. From spicy to herb-infused, these recipes cater to all taste preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Begin with a basic understanding of chicken tenders, which are slices of the whole chicken breast, typically marinated in buttermilk to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Chicken tenderloins, situated underneath the breast, are favored due to their uniform size and tenderness, ensuring even frying. Variations in the recipe often include incorporating herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper into the flour mix. The choice of frying oil can also vary, with options like peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil delivering excellent results.

Spicy Chicken Tenders

For those who enjoy an extra kick, spicy chicken tenders offer a thrilling burst of flavor. By increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding cayenne pepper to the flour mix, these tenders deliver a pleasantly spicy taste. Spicy variations can be complemented with different dipping sauces to balance the heat. According to the Seasoned Mom, marinating the tenders for 4-24 hours ensures the perfect blend of heat and tenderness.

  • Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix.
  • Increase red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Serve with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese.

Garlic and Herb Chicken Tenders

For a more aromatic and mild flavor, garlic and herb chicken tenders are an excellent choice. This variation involves adding garlic powder and a blend of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the flour mix. The addition of herbs not only enhances the flavor but also imparts a delightful aroma during frying, which typically takes around 6 minutes per batch in a deep fryer.

Buttermilk plays a crucial role, not only in its marinating capacity but also in its potential to be substituted by blending vinegar or lemon juice with milk. According to Barley and Sage, these buttermilk-infused tenders are best served immediately for optimal flavor.

“To achieve a crispy, golden coating, consider adding cornstarch to the flour mixture. Cornstarch absorbs moisture and prevents a gluey texture, ensuring a delightful crisp.” – Fried Chicken Expert

The creativity doesn’t stop here. For a comprehensive guide on Southern-style variations, refer to Taste of Home’s Southern Fried Chicken for more traditional approaches.

Try these delicious fried chicken tenders recipe variations for your next family meal or gathering, and enjoy the delightful flavors they bring to your table.

Homemade Chicken Tenders: Kid-Friendly Options

Creating homemade chicken tenders is a surefire way to please kids at the dinner table. Opt for a recipe that’s quick, taking less than 30 minutes, and ensure it results in deliciously crispy chicken tenders.

Chicken Tenders for Picky Eaters

For picky eaters, simplicity is key. The breading process involves dipping the chicken into flour, followed by an egg mixture, and then coating it with panko breadcrumbs. This method ensures the tenders are crunchy and appealing.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep the seasoning mild. Stick to basic spices like salt and pepper, but you can also add a hint of garlic powder for extra flavor. When paired with a favorite dipping sauce, even the fussiest kids will enjoy these homemade chicken tenders.

Healthy Alternatives: Baked Instead of Fried

One way to make your chicken tenders healthier is by baking them instead of frying. Baked chicken tenders have significantly fewer calories and less fat but still offer that desirable crispiness.

homemade chicken tenders

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. After breading the chicken, place the tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  3. Brush each piece with a small amount of olive oil for a golden finish.
  4. Bake for about 25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to ensure even cooking.

The result is crispy chicken tenders that are much lighter than their fried counterparts. A wire rack helps in achieving maximum crispiness, and this method also makes cleanup quicker. Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them great for meal prep.

Pairing Your Chicken Tenders with Delicious Dips

Elevate your delicious chicken tenders recipe by pairing them with classic and innovative dips. These accompaniments not only enhance the taste but also add layers of flavor, making them the best chicken tenders you’ve ever had.

Classic Ranch and Blue Cheese

Traditional dips like ranch and blue cheese are perennial favorites. Their creamy textures provide a delightful contrast to the crispy exterior of the chicken tenders. Here’s how you can make them:

  • Ranch Dipping Sauce: Combine ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon dill (dried or fresh), ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon chives (dried or fresh), ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
  • Blue Cheese Dressing: Blend together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, ½ cup crumbled blue cheese, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Sweet and Spicy Options

For those who like to play with contrasts, sweet and spicy dips are an excellent choice. They can turn your meal into an exciting culinary experience, perfectly complementing the best chicken tenders.

  • Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Mix ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt, ¼ cup honey, ¼ cup dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon white vinegar, ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until smooth and serve chilled.
  • Brown Sugar Pancake Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup water, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Chicken Tenders

When enjoying crispy breaded chicken tenders, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal. From classic staples to healthier options, there are numerous serving suggestions for chicken tenders to suit any preference.

Classic Sides: Fries and Coleslaw

For those who love traditional pairings, nothing beats the combination of fries and coleslaw with your easy chicken tenders recipe. These sides provide a balance of crunchy textures and tangy flavors that complement the chicken perfectly.

  1. Loaded Hash Brown Casserole
  2. Red Skin Potato Salad
  3. Skin On Roast Potatoes
  4. Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Healthy Sides: Salads and Veggies

If you prefer a healthier approach, consider serving suggestions for chicken tenders that include side salads or steamed and roasted veggies. These options not only add nutritional value but also bring a refreshing contrast to the crunchy chicken tenders.

  • Southern Broccoli Casserole
  • Strawberry Pecan Salad
  • Lemon Butter Asparagus
  • Pan Fried Okra

Whether you opt for classic or healthy sides, pairing your crispy breaded chicken tenders with these dishes will ensure a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Tenders

Ensuring the proper storage of chicken tenders is key to maintaining their crispiness and flavor. Chicken tenders can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or flash frozen for up to 3 months. When storing chicken tenders, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to your preferred storage method to avoid condensation.

Reheating leftover chicken tenders effectively is crucial to revive their crunchy texture without drying them out. The recommended methods vary:

  • Oven: Preheat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, bake refrigerated tenders for 10-15 minutes and frozen tenders for 20-25 minutes.
  • Toaster Oven: Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 minutes, flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  • Air Fryer: Set at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, cook refrigerated tenders for 5-7 minutes and frozen tenders for 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use 30-second intervals with a total of 1 minute on high power. Lay damp paper towels over chicken tenders during heating to maintain moisture.

It’s important that the chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are safe to eat. Avoid reheating chicken tenders multiple times, as this can cause them to dry out and become tough.

Air frying remains the most recommended method for reheating leftover chicken tenders to present a crisp exterior and moist interior. Spraying extra virgin olive oil on top before air frying can add extra crispiness. Always arrange chicken tenders in a single layer for optimal results.

Brands like Philips Air Fryer XL, Cosori XL, Ninja Dual, and Philips Dual are suggested for air frying due to their effectiveness in reheating evenly. Moreover, reheating chicken tenders alongside fries in the air fryer is recommended to prevent sogginess.

Reheating Method Time (Refrigerated) Time (Frozen)
Oven 10-15 minutes 20-25 minutes
Toaster Oven 10 minutes N/A
Air Fryer 5-7 minutes 10 minutes
Microwave 1 minute (30-second intervals) N/A

Always ensure reheated chicken tenders are consumed immediately to enjoy optimal texture and taste. By properly storing and reheating leftover chicken tenders, you can maintain their delicious flavor and satisfying crunch.

Tips for Feeding a Crowd: Party-Ready Chicken Tenders

When hosting a gathering, having crispy fried chicken tenders that retain their delightful crunch and flavor is crucial. Whether you prepare them from scratch or use pre-cut chicken tenders, always ensure the tendon is removed to avoid any unpleasant surprises. For the best texture, consider using Corn Chex in your breading mixture, which adds a superior crispness compared to wheat Chex.

Batch Cooking Techniques

To efficiently cook chicken tenders for a crowd, brining is essential. Soak the chicken in a brine infused with Worcestershire sauce and a balanced blend of Chex Mix seasonings for 3 to 8 hours. This process enhances juiciness and flavor. When preparing the breading mixture, include seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, black pepper, and MSG for a rich taste. Once breaded, let the chicken tenders rest for 10 minutes to prevent slippage during frying. For a detailed, double-battered method, refer to this double battered fried chicken tenders recipe.

Keeping Your Chicken Tenders Warm and Crispy

Maintaining the crunch of your party-ready chicken tenders is key. Use a warming tray or keep them in a low oven set to around 200°F to prevent sogginess. Shallow fry the tenders in a cast iron skillet with about 1 inch of canola oil, cooking them for 3-4 minutes per side for optimal results. Use one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet to avoid clumping. For inspiration, check out this Chex Mix chicken tenders recipe that balances spices perfectly in each step.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure every bite is delicious, crispy, and satisfying. For additional tips on perfecting homemade chicken tenders, have a look at this helpful chicken tenders recipe. Happy cooking!

FAQ

What ingredients do I need to make the best chicken tenders?

For the perfect chicken tenders, you need high-quality chicken tenders or strips, seasoned flour with essential spices such as seasoned salt, red pepper flakes, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, eggs, milk, and oil like canola or peanut oil for frying.

How do I marinate chicken tenders for maximum flavor?

Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk or a combination of milk and eggs. This process infuses a delightful flavor and results in tender, juicy chicken.

What are the best techniques for breading chicken tenders?

Proper breading involves coating the chicken tenders with seasoned flour, dipping them into an egg mixture, and then coating them again in the flour. This double breading ensures a crispy crust.

How do I achieve crispy, golden chicken tenders?

To ensure crispy, golden chicken tenders, fry them in oil heated to 350°-375°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan and let the cooked tenders rest for a few moments to allow the juices to settle and the crust to crisp.

What is the difference between pan-frying and deep-frying chicken tenders?

Pan-frying involves using a moderate amount of oil, resulting in a lighter crust, while deep-frying submerges the tenders in hot oil for a uniformly crispy shell. Choose a method based on your preference and available cooking equipment.

Which oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Canola oil is versatile with a neutral flavor, while peanut oil has a higher smoke point ideal for frying. Both oils are excellent choices for achieving crispy chicken tenders.

What safety tips should be followed when handling hot oil?

Never fill the pan more than halfway with oil, and carefully add the chicken to prevent splatter and burns. Monitor the temperature to avoid overheating the oil.

How can I season my chicken tenders perfectly?

Use a blend of spices like Montreal Steak Seasoning, paprika, garlic, and onion powder for flavorful chicken tenders. Marinating in buttermilk or a milk-based mixture enhances both taste and tenderness.

What variations can I try for my chicken tenders recipe?

For spicy chicken tenders, increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper. For garlic and herb tenders, incorporate garlic and herb seasonings into the flour mix.

How can I make homemade chicken tenders kid-friendly?

Simplify the spice mix to suit picky eaters and ensure a satisfying crunch that kids love. Baking instead of frying is a healthier alternative, reducing calories and fat without compromising on taste.

What are the best dips to serve with chicken tenders?

Classic dips like ranch and blue cheese complement the crunchy texture, while sweet and spicy options like honey mustard or homemade brown sugar pancake syrup add extra layers of flavor.

What are some recommended sides to pair with chicken tenders?

Classic sides include fries and coleslaw, while healthier options feature side salads or steamed and roasted vegetables, creating a balanced and nutritious meal.

How do I store and reheat leftover chicken tenders?

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture without drying them out.

What tips can help when feeding a crowd with chicken tenders?

Use batch cooking techniques and keep the tenders warm in a warming tray or low oven. Serve freshly fried in batches to maintain optimal taste and texture for guests.