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Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
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These Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders combine juicy, tender chicken soaked in tangy buttermilk with a seasoned, golden crispy coating. Perfect as a snack, meal, or party appetizer, they’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 lb fresh chicken tenders
  • 2 cups buttermilk

Coating

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil (enough for frying, about 2-3 cups)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl, cover with buttermilk, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a large shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
  3. Dredge the Tenders: Remove each tender from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off but keeping them moist. Press each piece thoroughly into the flour mixture, ensuring an even and generous coating.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy skillet or deep fryer and heat to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining this temperature ensures crispiness without greasiness.
  5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place tenders in the hot oil in batches without overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove tenders and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for longer (up to overnight) for juicier results.
  • Use a thermometer to keep oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
  • Double dredge by repeating the buttermilk and flour steps for extra crispy coating.
  • Let coated tenders rest 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
  • Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and temperature drop.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttermilk fried chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, fried chicken recipe, easy chicken tenders, party appetizer

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/buttermilk-fried-chicken-tenders/