Nothing beats a homemade fried chicken tenders, especially one that's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This recipe is perfect for a family meal or a casual get-together. Best of all, it's affordable and easy to make! Follow this step-by-step guide to create a mouth-watering fried chicken tenders that everyone will love.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken Tenders
Preparation and Cooking
Creating the perfect fried chicken at home can be a rewarding culinary experience. To ensure your chicken is crispy, juicy, and delicious, here are some essential tips for preparation and cooking.
Preparation Tips
Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a classic fried chicken sandwich.
Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk, pickle juice, and hot sauce for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours or overnight. This adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
Dry Brine: After marinating, pat the chicken dry and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps create a crispy crust when frying.
Coating Tips
Double Dredge: For an extra-crispy coating, dredge the chicken in the dry mix, dip it in the wet mixture, and then dredge it again in the dry mix. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
Frying Tips
Oil Temperature: Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed skillet with enough oil to submerge the chicken. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature, as too hot will burn the crust and too cool will make it greasy.
Fry in Batches: Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking. Allow the oil to return to the proper temperature between batches.
Drain Properly: Use a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain the fried chicken. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. Avoid using paper towels, as they can cause the chicken to steam and lose its crispiness.
Final Touches
Serve Immediately: Serve the tenders immediately after assembling to enjoy the chicken at its crispiest and juiciest. If you need to keep the chicken warm, place it on a wire rack in a low oven (200°F/93°C) until ready to eat.
Pairing: Serve your fried chicken tenders with sides like fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Consider adding a pickle spear or some extra dipping sauce on the side.
Ingredients for these Crispy Chicken Tenders
Chicken:
4 large chicken breasts
Canola or vegetable oil, for frying
Dry Batter:
2 cup all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons cornstarch
4 teaspoons garlic powder
4 tablespoons chili powder
4 teaspoons salt
4 teaspoons dry mustard powder
2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoon baking powder
Wet Batter:
1 & 1/2 cups of buttermilk
2 large eggs
4 tablespoons vinegar-based hot sauce
1/2 cup pickle juice
2 teaspoon baking powder
Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup ketchup
2 teaspoons Worcestershire or soy sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four pieces.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, dry mustard powder, black pepper, and baking powder.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, hot sauce, pickle juice, and baking powder. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of the wet batter into the dry to create some wet flakes.
4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the dry mix, then into the wet mix, and back into the dry mix. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the chicken pieces in batches for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire or soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fried chicken tenders with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or some coleslaw. These sandwiches are perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you crave something delicious and satisfying.
This fried chicken tenders recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its crispy coating and flavorful sauce, it's a meal that's both simple and indulgent.
Enjoy your homemade creation and savor every bite!