If you’re looking for a comfort food classic that’s sure to impress, you’ve come to the right place! These Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe brings smiles around the table. Imagine golden-brown tenders, perfectly seasoned and deliciously crunchy—it’s like a hug on a plate!

What makes this recipe even more special is the easy preparation and the chance to customize it just how you like. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. Trust me; once you make these buttermilk fried chicken tenders, they’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Perfection: These tenders come out so crunchy and golden that you’ll want to make them again and again.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty bites, making them perfect for any gathering.
Make-Ahead Magic: Marinate the chicken overnight for super flavorful tenders that save time on busy nights.
Easy Cleanup: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying!
Versatile Dipping Options: Pair these delicious tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or spicy ketchup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these mouthwatering buttermilk fried chicken tenders. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!

For the Marinade

2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders

For the Coating

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon baking powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun variations you can try:

Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts or even turkey tenders for a different twist.
Add some heat: Mix in extra cayenne or chili powder if you love some spice!
Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend for a safe option.
Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders and make sure they’re fully submerged. This marinade not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight for maximum tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another large bowl or shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, black pepper, and baking powder. This mixture creates that signature crispy coating we all love. It’s important to get everything mixed well so each piece of chicken gets evenly coated.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a heavy skillet or Dutch oven until it’s about 2-3 inches deep. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a thermometer helps maintain this temperature while frying; too cool oil can lead to soggy tenders!

Step 4: Coat and Rest

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in your flour mixture—pressing firmly helps create an even coating. Let them rest on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes before frying; this helps the coating stick better.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding! Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit). The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the tenders from the oil. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil while keeping them crispy. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces—honey mustard is always a crowd-pleaser!

Enjoy these delightful buttermilk fried chicken tenders with family and friends! They’re bound to become your new go-to recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Making the perfect buttermilk fried chicken tenders takes a bit of practice, but with these handy tips, you’ll be frying like a pro in no time!

Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken in buttermilk, the juicier and more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 2 hours or even overnight for optimal tenderness.
Keep Oil Temperature Steady: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy coating. Use a thermometer to keep an eye on the heat and adjust as necessary while frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping too much, which can result in soggy chicken. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and gets that nice golden crust.
Let Coated Chicken Rest: Allowing your coated tenders to rest for about 10 minutes before frying helps the breading adhere better, resulting in a crunchier finish.
Use a Wire Rack: Draining your fried chicken on a wire rack rather than paper towels helps maintain that coveted crispiness by preventing steam from making the bottom soggy.

How to Serve Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Serving up your buttermilk fried chicken tenders is just as important as making them! With some thoughtful presentation and delicious accompaniments, you’ll take this dish to another level.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a vibrant touch and brightens up the plate.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances flavor and adds a refreshing zing that complements fried foods beautifully.

Side Dishes

Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet balance to the savory chicken, plus they add a pop of color to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that pairs perfectly with fried chicken, adding sweetness and texture.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese brings comfort food vibes that everyone will love; it’s rich, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying alongside your crispy tenders.

Enjoy these buttermilk fried chicken tenders with your chosen garnishes and sides for an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These buttermilk fried chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, whether as a quick lunch or a delicious dinner.

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool completely.
Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For a quicker option, use a microwave but note that they may lose some crispiness.
If using an air fryer, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making buttermilk fried chicken tenders.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

How do I keep my Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders crispy after cooking?

To maintain the crispiness, place the fried tenders on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying. This allows air circulation around them, keeping them crunchy!

Can I bake these Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and spray lightly with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give these buttermilk fried chicken tenders a try! They’re not just easy to make; they’re also packed with flavor and sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, each bite is a little piece of comfort food heaven. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!