Introduction: Crispy, Juicy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Craving a satisfying and flavorful meal? Look no further than buttermilk chicken tenders. These aren’t your average, dry, and bland chicken strips. The buttermilk marinade ensures incredibly tender and juicy chicken, while a crispy coating provides the perfect crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a delicious snack, these buttermilk chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. This article will guide you through creating the perfect batch, from marinating to frying (or baking!) and serving suggestions.
Making the Perfect Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
The Magic of Buttermilk: Why It’s Essential
Buttermilk is the secret weapon for tender chicken. Its acidity tenderizes the meat, breaking down tough fibers and resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It also adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor profile. Don’t skip this crucial step!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, cut into strips.
- Buttermilk: Full-fat buttermilk is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
- Seasonings for the Marinade: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and your favorite hot sauce (optional).
- Coating: All-purpose flour, cornstarch (for extra crispiness), and the same seasonings as the marinade.
- Oil for Frying: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well.
Step-by-Step Recipe: From Marinade to Crispy Perfection
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and hot sauce (if using). Ensure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken for a thicker, crispier coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Baking Option (Healthier Alternative): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray generously with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken
- Use Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture creates a lighter, crispier coating.
- Double Dredge: For an even thicker and crispier coating, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then back into the buttermilk, and then back into the flour mixture again.
- Hot Oil is Key: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in unevenly cooked and less crispy chicken. Fry in batches.
Dipping Sauces & Serving Suggestions
The possibilities are endless when it comes to dipping sauces! Here are a few suggestions:
- Honey Mustard
- Ranch Dressing
- BBQ Sauce
- Sweet Chili Sauce
- Spicy Mayo
Serve your buttermilk chicken tenders with:
- Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
- Coleslaw
- Mashed Potatoes
- Corn on the Cob
- A fresh salad
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Homemade Buttermilk Chicken Tenders!
With this recipe, you’re well on your way to creating the most delicious, tender, and crispy buttermilk chicken tenders you’ve ever tasted. Experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to find your perfect combination. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
