Is there anything more comforting than a plate of crispy, golden-brown fried chicken tenders? I think not! These Fried Chicken Tenders are a staple in my house, a recipe passed down from my mama. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a fun weekend get-together, or even a fancy game-day spread. This isn’t just any fried chicken fillet recipe; it’s a tried-and-true method that guarantees tender, juicy chicken inside and a shatteringly crisp crust every single time. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Top Reasons To Make It
These Fried Chicken Tenders aren’t just delicious; they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Crispy, crunchy exterior, juicy interior: The perfect balance!
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves fried chicken.
- Customizable: Spice it up, sweeten it, or keep it classic – it’s your call.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main course, appetizer, or in salads and sandwiches.
Ingredients
See the detailed measurements below in the recipe card, but here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need:
- Chicken tenders: The star of the show.
- Buttermilk: For marinating – makes the chicken so, so tender.
- All-purpose flour: Helps create that beautiful crust.
- Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness.
- Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. To build amazing flavor, y’all.
- Eggs: Binds the breading to the chicken.
- Vegetable oil: Perfect for frying.
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This is key for juicy chicken!
- Whisk together all the dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, and spices).
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg, and finally, back into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (a breadcrumb should sizzle when dropped into the oil), carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
- Fry in batches for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Remove the fried chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Perfectly crispy.
Fried Chicken Tenders Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcrowd your pan when frying; this lowers the oil temperature and results in greasy chicken. Fry in batches for best results.
- Use a meat thermometer. It really is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through without overcooking it.
- Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying. This keeps the breading crisp!
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a teaspoon of chicken bouillon granules to your flour mixture.
- Want to get fancy? Try adding a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of sesame seeds right after frying. So good.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? You can easily customize this recipe!
- For a healthier version, try baking the chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes.
- To add some heat, add a little more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the breading mix.
- If you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Deep Frying Techniques
For perfectly deep-fried chicken, make sure your oil is the right temperature (350°F) and don’t overcrowd the pan. A deep-fry thermometer is your best friend!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through. Never reheat fried chicken in a microwave. It’ll get soggy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few common questions about making fried chicken tenders (or, as some folks call ’em, chicken fingers fried):
- Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed before marinating and breading.
- Is there a fried chicken tender recipe easy enough for a busy weeknight? Absolutely! This recipe is quick, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser. Check out the recipe card below.
There you have it, y’all – my tried-and-true recipe for Fried Chicken Tenders. It’s a taste of home, perfect for any occasion. I just know you and your family are gonna love it.
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Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders: My Mama’s Secret Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—these Fried Chicken Tenders are marinated in buttermilk and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or anytime you’re craving a little Southern comfort.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders and buttermilk. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
4. Dredge each marinated tender in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg, then back into the flour mixture, pressing to fully coat.
5. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F.
6. Carefully place a few tenders at a time in the hot oil. Fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
7. Remove tenders from oil and place on a wire rack to drain.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra spice, double the cayenne or add hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet—it drops the oil temperature and makes the coating soggy.
Best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: fried chicken tenders, crispy chicken, southern chicken, buttermilk fried chicken