Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe

There’s a special kind of magic that fills the air when homemade Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are sizzling in the kitchen. The aroma of juicy chicken being enveloped in a crispy, golden crust combines with the creamy richness of buttermilk, creating an irresistible allure. It’s a memory-laden dish that signifies comfort—perfect for cozy family dinners or a festive gathering. This Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe is destined to become a cherished favorite at your family table, evoking warmth and togetherness with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings families together. Here’s why it deserves a special place in your recipe rotation:

• Quick Family Meal: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet simple.
• Buttermilk Tenderness: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk ensures an incredibly moist and tender result.
• Festive Dish: Perfect for gatherings or celebrations; it’s bound to impress guests and elicit compliments.
• Endless Dipping Options: Serve with your favorite sauces—barbecue, ranch, or honey mustard—for a customizable treat.
• Healthier Indulgence: Made with wholesome ingredients, it strikes a balance between indulgent and health-conscious.

Ingredients with Notes

To make your Buttermilk Chicken Tenders shine, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders: Fresh and thawed, these will be the star of your dish.
• 1 cup buttermilk: The secret to extra tenderness. If you don’t have it on hand, a mixture of milk and vinegar works too.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base for your crispy coating. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle depth of flavor—fresh garlic will work too if you prefer.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the taste without overpowering the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a warmth and a slight smokiness; smoked paprika could elevate the flavor beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
• Vegetable oil (for frying): Canola or peanut oil is great for frying, providing a high smoking point.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Though there’s a bit of waiting for the chicken to soak in buttermilk, it’s a small investment for the juicy, tender result you’ll achieve.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. 
   

   Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

   
   
2. 
   

   Prepare the Coating: In a separate shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend will provide a crispy, flavorful outer layer.

   
   
3. 
   

   Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom—about 1/2 inch deep. Heat over medium-high heat until hot, but not smoking; you can test it with a small piece of flour—if it sizzles, it’s ready!

   
   
4. 
   

   Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

   
   
5. 
   

   Fry the Tenders: Place the coated chicken gently into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You’ll notice a beautiful aroma wafting through your kitchen.

   
   
6. 
   

   Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

   
   

Tips and Variations

• For a healthier twist, try baking the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway for an even cook.
• Add your favorite spices to the flour for a personal touch—cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a twist.
• Try swapping out all-purpose flour with crushed cornflakes or panko for an extra crunch!

Serving Ideas

For a truly cozy dinner, why not serve your Buttermilk Chicken Tenders with sides of crispy waffle fries and a crisp salad? A homemade coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch, while creamy mac and cheese makes a delightful indulgent pairing. A chilled glass of lemonade or an iced tea will complement the meal perfectly, turning an ordinary weeknight into something special.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (though they may not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be tricky; to retain that crispy coating, place the chicken tenders on a baking tray in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Chef’s Pro Tips

1. Rest Before Serving: Let the tenders rest for a couple of minutes after frying to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Make It Ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before for extra flavor and convenience.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving adds a lovely color and brightness to the dish.
4. Don’t Rush the Frying: Cooking in small batches ensures even cooking and a perfect crunch.
5. Experiment with Dips: Homemade ranch or a spicy aioli can elevate your meal even more.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken breast instead? Yes, just cut the breast into tender-sized strips for similar results.
• What can I substitute for buttermilk? A mix of 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice will do the trick.
• Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• How do I keep leftovers from getting soggy? Store them unwrapped in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

I invite you to try your hand at this Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Recipe. As you savor each bite, I hope it doesn’t just fill your stomach but warms your heart, bringing memories of laughter and good times shared around the dining table. Whether for a casual weekday meal or a special occasion, these tenders are bound to be a hit. Share them with loved ones, and let the joy multiply!

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