These Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are an irresistible treat, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The rich buttermilk marinade gives them a subtle tang and a juicy, tender bite. Paired with a dipping sauce of your choice, these tenders are sure to impress!
Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend snack, these chicken tenders are sure to satisfy. They’re a simple, comforting dish that everyone will love. You can customize them by adding your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces, but they’re delicious enough on their own.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 lb (450g) chicken tenders
-
1 cup buttermilk
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
1 tsp paprika
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
-
In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenders with the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
-
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and dried thyme.
-
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
-
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
-
Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and drain on paper towels.
-
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes Buttermilk Chicken Tenders Special?
Buttermilk Chicken Tenders stand out due to their rich, tangy marinade. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, giving it a moist and juicy texture. When fried, the coating becomes extra crispy, creating a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tender chicken inside. This combination of tenderness and crispiness makes these tenders a crowd-pleasing favorite.
The beauty of buttermilk chicken lies not only in its flavor but also in its versatility. These tenders can be served with various sauces, from tangy barbecue to creamy ranch or even a spicy buffalo sauce. The possibilities are endless, making them suitable for different tastes and occasions.
How to Make the Perfect Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
The key to achieving the perfect buttermilk chicken tenders lies in the marination process. By letting the chicken soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, the flavors can really soak in, creating a richer taste. This step also ensures the chicken remains moist and tender when cooked, while the coating becomes crispy and golden when fried.
Frying the tenders at the right temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the tenders can burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. If the oil is too cold, the tenders will absorb too much oil, resulting in greasy chicken. Maintaining the right temperature ensures the perfect crispy texture without compromising the chicken’s juiciness.
Customizing Your Chicken Tenders
One of the best parts about making chicken tenders is the ability to customize the flavors. While this recipe calls for basic seasoning such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, feel free to get creative with your seasoning blend. You can add cayenne pepper for a little heat or dried herbs like thyme and rosemary for an aromatic touch.
For an extra crispy texture, consider double-dipping your chicken. After coating the chicken in the flour mixture once, dip it back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again. This technique will result in an even thicker, crunchier crust that adds to the indulgence of the dish.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. While the texture won’t be the same, baking can still produce a crispy result if you coat the tenders with a bit of oil or cooking spray. Baking at a high temperature, such as 400°F, will help achieve that golden brown color.
Serving Suggestions
Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They make an excellent main dish when paired with a side of mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or even crispy fries. The mild flavor of the chicken pairs well with various side dishes, making it easy to serve a balanced meal.
For a fun, finger-food-friendly option, serve the tenders with an array of dipping sauces. From classic ketchup and honey mustard to spicy sriracha or tangy ranch, the possibilities for dipping sauces are endless. You can even offer a variety of sauces for your guests to try, making the meal interactive and exciting.
Another great way to serve buttermilk chicken tenders is in a sandwich. Place the crispy tenders in a bun, add some lettuce, pickles, and your favorite sauce, and you’ve got yourself a delicious chicken sandwich. This is a perfect option for parties, picnics, or casual weeknight dinners.
Healthier Alternatives
While buttermilk chicken tenders are a tasty indulgence, you can make a few adjustments to make them a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. For a lighter version, try using skinless chicken breast tenders instead of regular chicken tenders. This will reduce the fat content while still providing a juicy and tender chicken experience.
To cut back on calories, you can also bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. By using a rack to elevate the chicken, the air circulates around the tenders, helping them crisp up in the oven without the need for deep frying. You can also use a lower-fat buttermilk or substitute with a dairy-free alternative for those with lactose intolerance.
Another option is to replace the traditional all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. This swap will add fiber and protein to your meal, making it a bit healthier while still keeping that crispy coating. Adding ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the flour mixture is also a great way to boost the nutritional value of the tenders.
The Perfect Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken Tenders
When you serve buttermilk chicken tenders, it’s always a good idea to think about what to pair with them. Because the tenders are fried, you want side dishes that balance the richness of the chicken. Here are a few ideas:
-
Crispy Fries: A classic pairing for chicken tenders is crispy French fries. You can opt for regular fries, sweet potato fries, or even homemade baked fries.
-
Coleslaw: A tangy and refreshing coleslaw offers a crisp, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. The acidity of the dressing also helps cut through the richness of the fried tenders.
-
Macaroni and Cheese: If you want something indulgent, mac and cheese is a great pairing. The creamy cheese sauce complements the crispy chicken and creates a comforting meal.
-
Green Salad: For a lighter option, a simple green salad with fresh vegetables and a vinaigrette dressing balances the meal and adds some freshness to the plate.
-
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a great addition to a chicken dinner, offering a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken tender. Buttermilk Chicken Tenders offer the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a weekend snack, or a special event, these tenders are sure to impress. The versatility of the recipe means you can customize it to your liking, making it a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are an easy-to-make, delicious dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. The combination of juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly crispy coating makes these tenders irresistible. Whether you fry or bake them, serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, or pair them with complementary sides, this dish is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight meal, a casual party snack, or a kid-friendly dinner, these chicken tenders are always a good choice. With their simple ingredients and versatile nature, buttermilk chicken tenders are a meal that can easily become a regular part of your culinary rotation. Try them today, and you’ll see just how easy it is to make a delicious, crispy chicken dish everyone will love!