Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe : Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are one of the most popular comfort foods, known for their crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior. Whether you’re looking to prepare a family-friendly meal, a quick snack, or a game-day appetizer, these buttermilk chicken tenders will certainly satisfy your cravings. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to make these delicious tenders at home, using simple ingredients like buttermilk, breadcrumbs, and your favorite seasonings.
This recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few essential ingredients. Additionally, we’ll explore tips on how to achieve that perfect crunch, the right texture, and a flavorful experience that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s get started!
Why Choose Buttermilk Chicken Tenders?
Buttermilk Chicken Tenders stand out from regular fried chicken due to their marinating process in buttermilk. The tangy nature of buttermilk not only helps tenderize the chicken but also imparts a unique flavor that other marinades simply can’t match. This method ensures that every piece is juicy on the inside while maintaining a crispy crunch on the outside.
The combination of the tender meat and the crispy coating makes these tenders a perfect choice for any meal. They’re versatile, so you can pair them with a variety of sauces, dips, or sides. Whether served on their own or as part of a larger meal, buttermilk chicken tenders are bound to be a hit.
Ingredients for Perfect Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
To create the ultimate buttermilk chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1.5 pounds of chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Breading:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme
- Vegetable oil for frying (or enough to fill a frying pan)
For Dipping (Optional):
- BBQ sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or any dipping sauce of your choice
How to Make Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare your crispy and tender buttermilk chicken tenders:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken in Buttermilk
Start by preparing the chicken tenders. If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into strips, ensuring they are even in size for uniform cooking.
Place the chicken pieces into a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, mixing everything together. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the breading. In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, take each piece out of the buttermilk and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a thick coating. Repeat this process with all of the chicken pieces.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to submerge at least halfway up the chicken strips, ensuring they cook evenly and get crispy. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the skillet, cooking them in batches if necessary.
Fry the tenders for 4–6 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your buttermilk chicken tenders with a side of dipping sauce, fries, coleslaw, or any of your favorite sides. They’re perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
- Marinating Time: Don’t skip the marination step! The longer you allow the chicken to soak in the buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
- Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For extra crunch, you can double-coat your chicken. After the first breading step, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it in breadcrumbs again.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give your tenders an extra crunch, which is key for creating the perfect crispy texture.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Frying in batches ensures the oil stays hot, and each chicken tender gets crispy and golden.
- Keep the Chicken Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked chicken tenders warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while frying the rest of the tenders.
Nutritional Information
Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are relatively high in protein due to the chicken. They are typically fried, so while they are indulgent, they are best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (4 pieces):
- Calories: 300–350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15–20g
- Carbohydrates: 20–25g
For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. To do so, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet, and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations on Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
While the classic buttermilk chicken tenders recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: After frying, toss the chicken tenders in a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and grated parmesan cheese for a flavorful twist.
- Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are a crowd favorite and a fantastic way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken at home. With a simple marinade and a few pantry staples, you can prepare this irresistible dish in no time. Whether you serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad, they are sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire.
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