Golden crunchy chicken tenders (Printable Version)
Golden crunchy chicken strips, juicy inside, ideal for dipping and sharing with family or friends.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 1.1 lb chicken breast tenders or strips
→ Marinade
02 - ½ cup buttermilk
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp onion powder
06 - ½ tsp paprika
07 - ½ tsp salt
08 - ¼ tsp ground black pepper
→ Breading
09 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
10 - ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
11 - 1 tsp paprika
12 - 1 tsp salt
13 - ½ tsp ground black pepper
→ For Frying
14 - 2 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
# How to Make It:
01 - In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken tenders and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
02 - In a separate shallow dish, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
03 - Remove chicken tenders from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure coating adherence.
04 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C) for deep frying.
05 - Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
06 - Transfer fried tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with preferred dipping sauces.
# Expert Insights:
01 -
- It's like sharing a secret for perfectly crispy, juicy chicken that everyone will ask for again
- The balance of simple spices and that buttermilk marinade is a flavor combo that never gets old
02 -
- Don't overcrowd the pan or the oil temperature will drop, making the tenders soggy instead of crispy
- Letting the chicken marinate longer really transforms the flavor and texture
03 -
- Use an instant-read thermometer to nail the perfect doneness without guessing
- Season the breadcrumbs with herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking