Proper Cracking Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and Downright Delicious

Proper fried chicken tenders recipe like TGI Fridays? Get golden, juicy tenders every time! Double-dredged for that irresistible crunch. Dipping encouraged!

June 6, 2025
By Aidan Rivers.

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Alright, let's dive into what makes a fried chicken tenders recipe truly epic. i'm talking about that perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and downright addictive.

You know, the kind that reminds you of kicking back on a friday night? it's more than just throwing some chicken in a pan!

Proper Cracking Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and Downright Delicious

This isn't your average dry and boring fried chicken tenderloins recipes . it's a golden-brown, crispy delight. while it's inspired by southern cooking, it's made easy for us at home.

The secret? a double dredge and a little something special for extra crispy chicken tenderloin recipes . you can dip them, stick them in a sandwich or just eat them straight up.

No judgement.

We are talking about a dish with a rich history, rooted in southern comfort food. the best chicken tenders are about sharing happiness! it's a moderately easy recipe, taking about an hour to prepare and cook.

This yields around 4 servings, perfect for a family chicken strip meal ideas or small get-together.

Proper Cracking Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and Downright Delicious Recipe Card

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Preparation time:50 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups (960ml) vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying

Instructions:

• Whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), baking powder, salt, and pepper.
• Place half of the flour mixture in a shallow dish or plate. Have the bowl of marinated chicken nearby. Place the other half of flour mixture in another shallow dish or plate for the second dredge.
• Remove a chicken tender from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the first flour mixture, pressing to coat. Then, dredge in the second flour mixture, ensuring a thorough coating. Place dredged tender on a wire rack. Repeat with remaining tenders.
• Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• Carefully lower the chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer.
• Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Remove tenders from oil using tongs and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
• Serve hot immediately and enjoy!

Why These Tenders are the Real Deal

Let’s be honest: everyone loves juicy fried chicken tenders , and this recipe nails it. the buttermilk soak helps tenderize the chicken, making sure a dinner idea with chicken tenderloins that's moist and flavorful.

The baking powder in the dredge? that’s the secret to that incredible crispiness.

Seriously, they're great for parties or even a quick weeknight dinner idea with chicken tenderloins . plus, you can customize the flavors to your liking.

Think of it as your gateway to diy chicken tenders perfection.

This particular fried chicken tenders recipe is special because it’s all about that perfect balance. it's not about complicated steps.

It's about using simple techniques to create something truly amazing. no breadcrumbs needed either, you can achieve a fantastic result without breading.

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need for this fried chicken tenders recipe ! trust me, having the right stuff makes all the difference.

Forget bland, sad chicken. we're talking tgi fridays chicken fingers level good, maybe even better! seriously!

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients: The Chicken & Its Bath

Okay, first things first, you'll need:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders.

  Quality check: Look for chicken that's pink and firm. Nobody wants dodgy chicken!

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk. This is key for that juicy tenderness.

• 1 tbsp of your favourite hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot). Trust me.

• 1 tsp kosher salt.

• 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Mix the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper to marinate the chicken. this is crucial . it'll make your juicy fried chicken tenders sing! marinate for at least 30 minutes .

I sometimes leave mine for 4 hours .

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Explosion!

Forget boring chicken tenders without breadcrumbs . We're packing flavor! This mix is where the magic happens:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch – This is how we get that crispy coating!
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a kick!)
• 1 tsp baking powder (The secret to crispy chicken tenderloin recipes !).
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Experiment with essential spice combinations ! Smoked paprika? Chipotle powder? Go wild! If you're looking for a dinner idea with chicken tenderloins , this recipe is it!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen for this deep fried chicken tenders recipe . Honestly, you don't! Here’s what's essential:

• Three large mixing bowls.
• Shallow dish or plate.
• Whisk.
• Tongs.
• A deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot for stovetop chicken tenders .
• An instant-read thermometer. Gotta make sure that chicken reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
• Wire rack with paper towels.

Don't have a deep fryer? no worries! a large pot works just fine. i’ve even used a wok in a pinch! and that’s how you cook how to cook chicken tenderloins in a pan .

If you follow that chicken tenders easy recipes you are gonna make the best chicken tenders ever! this will be the crispiest diy chicken tenders .

Serve with your chicken strip meal ideas !

Alright, let's get clucking! i'm about to share my fried chicken tenders recipe . trust me; it’s the real deal. forget those bland imitations! i was inspired by classic southern techniques but adapted for the home cook.

I'm telling you, these are next level.

Proper Cracking Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and Downright Delicious

Honestly, the best chicken tenders should be crispy and juicy. these hit the spot. remember that time tgi fridays chicken fingers were the bomb? these are way better.

You can also ditch the breading and make chicken tenders without breadcrumbs . these bad boys offer that irresistible crunch with a secret ingredient.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place for Maximum Flavour

First things first: mise en place! Get everything ready before you start.

• Essential Mise en Place
  • Tenderize and cut 1.5 lbs chicken breasts into 1-inch tenders.
  • Mix your wet ingredients and dry ingredients.
  • Heat 4 cups of vegetable oil to 350° F ( 175° C) . Use a thermometer!
• Time-Saving Organization Tips
  • Marinate the chicken the night before for extra flavour.
  • Pre-mix your dry ingredients and store them.
• Safety Reminders
  • Hot oil is dangerous! Be careful and never leave it unattended.
  • Use tongs to lower the chicken into the oil to avoid burns.

Cracking the Code: Step-by-Step to Fried Perfection

Here is how to cook chicken tenderloins in a pan . Just follow these steps. I'm telling you, this is gonna be amazing.

1. Marinate your chicken for at least 30 mins. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds flavour. I personally like to marinate them for 30 minutes to 4 hours .
2. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture and press to coat. Ensure that it is thoroughly coated.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350° F ( 175° C) . Check with a thermometer.
4. Carefully lower 3 to 4 diy chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches. You don't want to overcrowd it!
5. Fry for 5- 7 minutes , until golden brown. The internal temperature needs to be 165° F ( 74° C) .
6. Remove tenders. Place on a wire rack lined with paper towels. This removes the excess oil.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Level Up Your Tender Game: Pro Tips & Tricks

Want crispy chicken tenderloin recipes ? Here are some of my favorite tips.

• Use baking powder in the dredge. It creates air pockets for a crispier coating.
• Don't overcrowd the fryer. This lowers the oil temperature.
• Marinate your juicy fried chicken tenders in buttermilk overnight. It makes them more tender.

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcrowding the fryer.
• Frying at the wrong temperature.
• Not using a thermometer.

Deep fried chicken tenders recipes can be made ahead. Fry them until light golden brown. Then, finish frying just before serving.

So, there you have it! the ultimate dinner idea with chicken tenderloins . my chicken tenders easy recipes are designed to bring your kitchen to the next level.

I promise, you'll never look at store-bought tenders the same way again. from pancake batter chicken tenders to deep fryer chicken tenders you can make many options.

Remember, these tenders are not just food; they're an experience, a trip down memory lane to those carefree tgi friday’s evenings, but with a homemade twist.

Now go on, give my fried chicken tenders recipe a try and let me know what you think. i bet it'll become your favorite chicken strip meal ideas recipe!

Recipe Notes for Cracking Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

Alright, let's dive deeper into what makes this fried chicken tenders recipe extra special. Honestly, it's all about the little things, innit? You know, those extra touches that elevate it from "meh" to "Oh my gosh, this is amazing!"

Serving' Em Up Proper: Plating and Presentation

So, you've got these golden-brown beauties. how do you make them look as good as they taste? for me, presentation is a big thing.

Think about it. we eat with our eyes first, don't we?

Instead of just slapping them on a plate, try arranging them artfully. a drizzle of honey mustard or a dollop of ranch on the side? chef's kiss! a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of colour, too.

You could also present them standing in a cool glass like tgi fridays chicken fingers.

What about sides? Classic coleslaw is always a winner. Or some crispy fries – can't go wrong there. Mac and cheese? Now you're talking!

Storage Secrets: Keeping 'Em Fresh

Right, so you've made a batch of juicy fried chicken tenders and you've got leftovers. What now? No worries, I've got you covered.

If you're planning on scoffing them down the next day, just pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll be good for up to 3 days.

For reheating, the oven is your best mate. it'll help keep them crispy. a quick blast in the microwave works in a pinch, but they might lose some of their crunch.

If you have deep fryer chicken tenders, simply fry them again.

Freezing? Yeah, you can do it. But honestly, they're best fresh. If you must, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in cling film before freezing.

Variations: Shake It Up!

Fancy a bit of a twist? Here are some ideas. Want Chicken Tenders Without Breadcrumbs ?, try removing the Pancake Batter Chicken Tenders.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dredge. or try using a spicy marinade. you can create a chicken strip meal idea by cutting chicken breast into strips.

Seasonal? Why not try a lemon and herb dredge in the spring? Or a smoky paprika rub in the autumn?

Nutrition Nuggets: A Little Bit of Info

Okay, so these aren't exactly health food. But everything in moderation, right?

These crispy chicken tenderloin recipes are a good source of protein. and that's important for building muscles and keeping you feeling full.

You can use any chicken tender recipes crispy or crispy chicken tenderloin recipes .

But remember, they're also fried. So, watch those portion sizes. How To Cook Chicken Tenderloins In A Pan ? You must be very careful!

The Bottom Line

Making these the best chicken tenders isn't difficult. it's all about the prep and the little touches. it can be great dinner idea with chicken tenderloins.

Don't be afraid to experiment and put your own stamp on them.

Honestly, once you nail this deep fried chicken tenders recipes recipe, you'll be making them all the time. So get cracking and enjoy!