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crispy buttermilk fried chicken tenders recipe - Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

crispy buttermilk fried chicken tenders recipe made easy at home. Golden, juicy, and incredibly crunchy chicken tenders that rival your favorite Southern comf
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Chicken & Marinade
  • 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenderloins or boneless skinless breasts cut into strips
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk full-fat preferred
  • 1 tsp hot sauce optional, adds tang
Seasoned Flour Breading
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch for extra crispiness
  • 1 tsp seasoning salt such as Lawry's
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
Egg Wash
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp water or buttermilk
For Frying
  • 3-4 cups vegetable oil or peanut oil enough for 1 inch depth in skillet
  • to taste flaky sea salt for finishing

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken tenderloins, turn to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
  2. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, seasoning salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne. In a second shallow dish, beat eggs with 2 tablespoons water or buttermilk.
  3. Remove a tenderloin from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in seasoned flour, pressing gently to coat. Dip into egg wash, then back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick crust. Place on a wire rack.
  4. Heat oil in a large, heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add tenders in a single layer without crowding. Fry 3-4 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
  5. Immediately sprinkle hot tenders with a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.