Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe: A Family Favorite

Welcome to my go-to recipe for crispy chicken tenders! These golden, flavorful tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or game-day gatherings. With a simple buttermilk marinade and a seasoned breading, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality crunch right at home. This easy recipe is packed with tips to ensure your tenders are tender, juicy, and irresistibly crispy every time.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

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Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins, patted dry by Organic Recipe Guide

For the Breading:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For Frying:

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of buttermilk, 1 egg, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Add them to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Breading: In a separate large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tenderloin in the flour mixture, shake off excess, then dip back into the buttermilk mixture. Dredge again in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet.
5. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use enough oil to submerge the tenders halfway.
6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Drain and Serve: Remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like honey mustard or ranch. by Organic Recipe Guide

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Check Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F to ensure even frying and maximum crispiness.
• Double Dredging: The double-coating process is key to achieving that extra crispy chicken tenders texture.
• Rest Before Frying: Let the coated tenders rest for 5-10 minutes before frying to help the breading stick.

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Serving Suggestions

These crispy chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Try them with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes and gravy
• A fresh green salad with ranch dressing
• Homemade coleslaw for a classic touch
• French fries or sweet potato fries

Don’t skip the dipping sauces! Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo are always crowd-pleasers. Organic Recipe Guide

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Enjoy Your Crispy Chicken Tenders!

This crispy chicken tenders recipe is a guaranteed hit for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—share your thoughts in the comments below! Organic Recipe Guide

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