The Ultimate Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

If there’s one thing that never fails to bring a smile to the dinner table, it’s a batch of crispy fried chicken tenders. These golden, crunchy strips of chicken are the perfect blend of juicy tenderness inside and irresistible crispiness outside. Whether you’re feeding the kids, prepping for a game day, or simply craving a tasty comfort food fix, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is straightforward with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk infuses it with flavor and keeps the meat incredibly tender. The secret to that perfect crunch? A double coating with a flour and cornstarch blend that crisps up beautifully in hot oil. Plus, you can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste—mild and comforting or with a spicy kick!

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Juiciness
The first step is marinating your chicken tenders in a buttermilk mixture seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The acidity in the buttermilk breaks down the proteins, making the chicken tender and juicy while adding a subtle tang that balances the crispy coating.

If you have time, let the chicken soak for 2 to 4 hours in the fridge — this is where all the magic happens. But even a quick 30-minute marinade will give you great results. For a spicy twist, toss in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. Trust me, it adds a nice depth of flavor.

The Perfect Crispy Coating
This is where the crunch really comes from. Mixing all-purpose flour with cornstarch and baking powder creates a light, airy crust that stays crisp even after frying. Adding a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in the flour mixture ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Here’s a little tip: after dipping the chicken in the marinade, coat it once in the flour mixture, then dip it in beaten eggs, and finally coat it again with the flour. This double dredging seals in the moisture and guarantees a crispy crust that won’t fall off in the pan.

Frying Like a Pro
Heating the oil to exactly 350°F (175°C) is crucial. Too hot, and the coating will burn before the chicken cooks through; too cool, and your tenders will absorb too much oil and get greasy. Use a thermometer if you have one — it’s worth it!

Fry the tenders in small batches so the temperature stays steady. Each batch should take about 4-5 minutes per side to reach that gorgeous golden brown and a juicy interior. A quick check with a meat thermometer will tell you when the chicken hits the safe internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

Once fried, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt while they’re still hot to enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions
Serve your crispy fried chicken tenders immediately with classic dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or tangy barbecue. Add some fresh lemon wedges on the side for a little zesty brightness — it’s a game changer! For a full meal, pair them with crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Tenders Every Time

• For extra crispiness, don’t skip the cornstarch in your flour mixture. It’s the secret ingredient that makes the coating crackle delightfully.
• Let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying; this helps the coating stick better.
• If you’re in a hurry, chicken thighs can be swapped for tenders — they stay juicy and flavorful too.
• Want to go gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, and make sure your seasonings don’t contain gluten.

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Variations to Try

• Spicy Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mix for a spicy punch that warms the palate.
• Herb-Infused: Toss dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour for an herby twist.
• Parmesan Crust: Mix in grated Parmesan to the breading for a nutty, cheesy flavor boost.
• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a lighter version, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.
• Baked Tenders: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Less oil, same great taste!

Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? Store your chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep that crispiness alive, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or pop them in the air fryer. Avoid microwaving if possible — it makes the coating soggy.

If you want to freeze, lay the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven or air fryer for best results.

FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenders?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs are juicier and still delicious with this method.

What oil should I use for frying?
Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Make sure to press the coating firmly onto the chicken and let it rest a few minutes before frying.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
You can! Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s tangy effect.

What dipping sauces go best?
Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, and buffalo sauce all complement these tenders beautifully.

Double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Just fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady.

Final Thoughts
These crispy fried chicken tenders are truly the ultimate comfort food. They bring that perfect crunch with juicy, flavorful chicken inside — every bite is a little celebration. With this recipe, you’ve got a foolproof method that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for entertaining friends. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that fryer, and get ready to wow your family and friends with the best chicken tenders you’ve ever made. You’ll love how easy and delicious this is!

Enjoy!