fried chicken tenders

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Fried chicken tenders are easy to make and taste better than takeout. They’re crispy, juicy, and great for any meal. You just need basic ingredients and a few simple steps to get started.

Why We Love This Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this dish. First, it delivers that satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Second, it’s incredibly adaptable—you can serve it with sauces, in wraps, or alongside your favorite sides. Finally, it’s just plain fun to eat, whether you’re young or simply young at heart. Plus, you don’t need complicated ingredients or equipment, just some chicken, basic pantry staples, and a skillet or fryer.

Ingredients for Fried Chicken Tenders

  • 2 lbs. chicken tenderloins (or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Oil for deep-fat frying (peanut oil or vegetable oil works best)

How to Make Fried Chicken Tenders Directions

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Don’t skip this part—seasoning now ensures flavor in every bite.

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and garlic salt. This will be your wet mix. In another shallow dish, stir together the flour, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper for the dry coating.

Take each chicken strip and dip it first into the buttermilk-egg mixture. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour, pressing gently so the coating sticks well. Set each coated strip aside on a wire rack. Letting the coating rest helps it stick better during frying.

Next, heat about 2 inches of oil in your skillet or fryer to 375°F. Carefully place a few chicken strips into the hot oil, leaving space between them. Fry each piece for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before you take it out.

Once fried, transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. If you’re cooking in batches, keep the finished tenders warm in a 200°F oven until you’re ready to serve them all together.

How to Serve Fried Chicken Tenders

You can enjoy fried chicken tenders in so many ways. Serve them hot and fresh with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. They’re great on their own, but also shine when stuffed into wraps or sliced over a salad. Want a more filling meal? Pair them with fries, mashed potatoes, or a light coleslaw for balance. For the kids (or the kid in you), a simple plate of tenders with ketchup and mac and cheese makes a comforting combo.

Expert Tips: Fried Chicken Tenders

  • Let the coating rest: After dredging the chicken, let it sit for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating cling better and stay crispy.
  • Use a thermometer: Keep your oil at 375°F. Too hot and it burns the outside, too cool and it makes the tenders greasy.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.
  • Double dredge if you want extra crunch: Dip the chicken in the flour, back into the egg mixture, and again in the flour for a thicker, crunchier crust.
  • Try seasoning your flour mix: Add paprika, onion powder, or cayenne for a flavor boost.

How to Store Fried Chicken Tenders

Leftover fried chicken tenders store well in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container with paper towels between layers to absorb any excess moisture. They’ll stay fresh for 3–4 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to bring back that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the coating soggy.

Variations of Fried Chicken Tenders

  • Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or a splash of hot sauce to the buttermilk.
  • Herb-crusted tenders: Mix dried Italian herbs into the flour for an herby twist.
  • Cornflake crusted: Use crushed cornflakes instead of flour for an ultra-crunchy coating.
  • Air fryer version: Skip the deep-frying and use an air fryer to make a lighter version—just spray the tenders with oil and cook at 400°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the coating.

FAQ about Fried Chicken Tenders

Can you use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, just cut the breasts into evenly sized strips for consistent cooking.

How do you keep fried chicken tenders crispy?
Let them drain on a wire rack or paper towels and keep them warm in the oven until ready to serve.

What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil are ideal for frying due to their high smoke points and neutral flavor.

Can you freeze fried chicken tenders?
Yes, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Do you need buttermilk for the recipe?
Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a slight tang, but if unavailable, you can substitute with milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar.

fried chicken tenders

Fried Chicken Tenders

Crispy, juicy fried chicken tenders that are easy to make and taste better than takeout.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken tenderloins (or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Oil for deep-fat frying (peanut oil or vegetable oil works best)

Instructions
 

  • Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  • In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and garlic salt.
  • In another shallow dish, stir together flour, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper for the dry coating.
  • Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk-egg mixture, then dredge in the seasoned flour. Set aside on a wire rack.
  • Heat about 2 inches of oil in a skillet or fryer to 375°F.
  • Carefully place a few chicken strips into the hot oil, frying for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Transfer fried tenders to a plate lined with paper towels. Keep warm in a 200°F oven if cooking in batches.

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Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container with paper towels between layers for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for best results.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Fried Chicken

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