Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe: A Simple Guide to Perfectly Golden Bites
Are you craving some juicy, crispy chicken tenders? Look no further! This recipe will guide you through making restaurant-quality chicken tenders in the comfort of your own kitchen. Forget those bland, dry versions – we’re going for perfectly seasoned, extra crispy perfection. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is surprisingly straightforward, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into tenders (approximately 1-inch thick)
- Marinade:
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Breadcrumbs: 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness!)
- Frying: Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get cooking! Follow these steps for perfectly crispy chicken tenders every time.
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken tenders and make sure they're fully coated in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be.
2. Prepare for Breadcrumb Coating:
- Pour the panko breadcrumbs onto a large plate.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well. You might need to repeat this process for a thicker, crispier crust.
4. Fry to Perfection:
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the correct temperature; this is crucial for even cooking and crispiness.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry for about 6-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Drain and Serve:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces – honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy mayo!
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tenders.
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Double breading: For extra-crispy chicken, try double breading – dip in the marinade, bread, then dip in the marinade again and bread a second time.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Serving Suggestions:
These crispy chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a main course with your favorite sides, such as:
- French fries
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Mashed potatoes
- A fresh salad
Enjoy your delicious, homemade crispy chicken tenders! They're perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a quick weeknight meal. Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us! Happy cooking!
