Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe (with Video)

Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe: Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned—fried chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, game night, or just craving a crunchy snack, this homemade version is way better than any fast-food alternative. The secret? A perfect blend of spices, a crispy coating, and juicy chicken inside.

Follow this step-by-step guide to make the best fried chicken tenders ever!

Ingredients Needed

Before we start, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
• 1 cup buttermilk (for extra tenderness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

For the Egg Wash:

• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk

For the Breadcrumb Coating (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

• 3-4 cups vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil works best)

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. If using whole chicken breasts, slice them into uniform strips about ½-inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
2. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and makes it juicy.
3. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the Breading Station

1. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
3. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the bowls in order: flour mixture, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixture for easy coating.

Step 3: Coating the Chicken

1. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge.
2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Dip it into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
4. Finally, coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy layer. Press gently to adhere.
5. For extra crispiness, repeat the process for double coating!

Step 4: Frying the Chicken Tenders

1. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
2. Carefully place 4-5 chicken tenders in the oil, avoiding overcrowding.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Draining and Serving

1. Let the tenders rest for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
2. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
3. Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Extra Crispy and Juicy Tenders

• Use cornstarch: It makes the coating extra crispy.
• Double dip: A second coat of breading ensures crunchiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: It lowers oil temperature, making tenders greasy.
• Use a thermometer: Keeps oil at the right temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Skipping marination—it keeps chicken juicy.
❌ Using too much flour—this can make the breading thick and doughy.
❌ Frying at low heat—leads to greasy chicken.

Serving Ideas and Side Dishes

• Classic fries or sweet potato fries
• Mac and cheese for a creamy side
• Fresh coleslaw for balance
• Biscuits and honey for a Southern twist

Storing and Reheating Fried Chicken Tenders

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs about Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

1. What are the best cuts of chicken for making chicken tenders?

Chicken tenders are best made using the chicken tenderloin, which is the strip of muscle tucked under the breast. However, you can also slice the chicken breast into strips if tenderloins are unavailable.

2. What should I use for the breading?

For crispy chicken tenders, a combination of flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs works well. You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.

3. How can I make gluten-free chicken tenders?

To make gluten-free chicken tenders, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal for the coating.

4. What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil are great choices for frying chicken tenders because they have a high smoke point, which allows you to fry at a higher temperature for crispy results.

5. How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

Chicken tenders are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer will help you ensure they are perfectly safe to eat.

6. Can chicken tenders be baked instead of fried?

Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

7. How can I keep the breading from falling off while frying?

To keep the breading intact, make sure to dredge the chicken thoroughly in flour first, dip into beaten eggs, then press firmly into the breadcrumbs. Let them rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating set.

8. What dipping sauces pair well with chicken tenders?

Popular dipping sauces for chicken tenders include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce. You can also try something different like a garlic aioli or a spicy chipotle mayo for a kick.

9. Can I prepare chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. You can also freeze them after breading and fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

10. Are chicken tenders suitable for children?

Chicken tenders are a kid-friendly dish that is often popular with children due to their mild flavor and crispy texture. They are easy to eat and can be served with a variety of dips to make them more appealing to young taste buds.

Conclusion

Making homemade fried chicken tenders is easier than you think! With a flavorful marinade, crispy coating, and perfect frying technique, you can enjoy restaurant-quality tenders right at home. Give it a try, and let me know how they turn out!