Few foods are as universally loved as chicken tenders. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re aiming for a classic crispy tender or looking to add some extra flavor with unique seasonings, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make chicken tenders at home—from techniques for the perfect crispy coating to different ways to serve them.
Why We Love Homemade Chicken Tenders
What’s so great about homemade chicken tenders? For one, they’re incredibly versatile. You can make them classic with just salt and pepper, go spicy with a dash of hot sauce, or even give them a little sweetness with honey or maple syrup. Plus, making them yourself allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring you’re using fresh, quality ingredients without any mystery additives.
The Essential Recipe for Crispy Chicken Tenders
This recipe is a no-fail classic, using buttermilk to keep the chicken juicy and a seasoned breading to make the coating extra crispy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or slice chicken breasts into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika (for color and mild flavor)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil work well)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and egg. Place the chicken strips in the buttermilk mixture, cover, and let marinate for 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. This step makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken strip out of the buttermilk mixture and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the breading sticks.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if it’s ready, drop in a small piece of breading; it should bubble and sizzle.
- Fry the Tenders: Carefully place the chicken strips in the hot oil, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Variations to Spice Up Your Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking to try something different, here are a few ways to get creative with chicken tenders.
1. Parmesan Herb Chicken Tenders
- Add to Breading: Mix ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with marinara sauce or a light garlic aioli for an Italian-inspired twist.
2. Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Tenders
- Marinade: Add 2 tbsp of honey and 1 tbsp of mustard to the buttermilk marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra honey mustard sauce for double the flavor.
3. Buffalo-Style Chicken Tenders
- Spicy Marinade: Add 1 tbsp of hot sauce to the buttermilk for an extra kick.
- After Frying: Toss the cooked tenders in a mixture of melted butter and hot sauce for a classic Buffalo taste. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
4. Baked Chicken Tenders
- Healthier Option: Follow the basic breading instructions, then place the tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Dipping Sauces for the Perfect Finish
No chicken tender meal is complete without a delicious dipping sauce! Here are some easy ideas to complement your tenders:
- Classic Honey Mustard: Combine 2 parts Dijon mustard with 1 part honey.
- Barbecue Sauce: Sweet and smoky, this is a favorite for a reason!
- Ranch or Blue Cheese: These creamy dips pair well with spicy tenders, especially Buffalo-style.
- Sriracha Mayo: For a spicy twist, mix mayo with sriracha for a creamy and spicy dip.
- Garlic Parmesan Aioli: Mix mayo, garlic powder, grated Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon for a rich, flavorful dip.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tenders
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Marinating in buttermilk makes a huge difference! The acid in the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful.
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but panko breadcrumbs give tenders an extra crispy, airy coating.
- Control Oil Temperature: If frying, keep an eye on the oil temperature. Too hot, and the coating will burn before the chicken cooks through; too cool, and the tenders will get greasy instead of crispy.
- Serve Immediately: Chicken tenders are best served hot and fresh. If you’re making a large batch, keep them warm in the oven until you’re ready to serve.
The Final Touch: A Fun Family Meal
Chicken tenders are perfect for family dinners, game nights, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With a bit of prep, you’ll have homemade tenders that rival any restaurant version. Get the kids involved in the breading process—it can be a fun way to spend time together, and they’ll love seeing their hard work turn into delicious results.
Enjoy your homemade chicken tenders with friends, family, and your favorite dipping sauces! Happy coo
