Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Introduction

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a perfectly seasoned crust, these chicken tenders fry up golden, juicy, and irresistibly crunchy. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or casual gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredients

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make perfectly crispy buttermilk chicken tenders:

1. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken tenders in a medium bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to ensure tender, flavorful chicken.

2. Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This seasoned mixture creates a crunchy, flavorful crust.

3. Heat the Oil

Pour about 1 inch of canola oil into a heavy skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 375°F (190°C).

4. Coat and Fry

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil and fry for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).

5. Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes.

Conclusion

These Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders deliver the perfect balance of crunch and juicy flavor in every bite. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite for both kids and adults. Pair them with classic sauces or fresh sides for a satisfying meal everyone will love.