The Best Homemade Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade fried chicken tenders are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a quick dinner or game-day snack. You’ll love how easy they are to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Crispy perfection: A golden, crunchy coating locks in all the juicy tenderness of the chicken.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these, especially with their favorite dipping sauces.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Recipe
Crispy, golden, and irresistibly delicious, these homemade fried chicken tenders are a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Simple to make with pantry staples, they’re a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought versions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a bowl, soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge) to tenderize and add flavor.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge them in the flour mixture, pressing gently to guarantee an even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Transfer the fried tenders to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes:
- For extra crispiness, double-dredge the chicken tenders by dipping them back into the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
- Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and confirm even cooking.
Equipment:
Safe fryer, deep skillet, or frying pan; thermometer; wire rack or paper towels
Time:
Prep time: 40 minutes (including marinating)
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
Fried chicken tenders are a delicious and crispy treat, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade fried chicken tenders with creamy dipping sauces, like ranch or honey mustard, because they add a cool, tangy contrast to the crispy coating. A fresh side salad, maybe with crunchy veggies and a light vinaigrette, balances the meal perfectly. You can’t go wrong with these combos—they’re simple but make the whole dish feel complete.
Creamy Dipping Sauces
If you’re looking to take your homemade fried chicken tenders to the next level, creamy dipping sauces are the perfect companion. I love pairing crispy tenders with a tangy buttermilk ranch or a smoky chipotle mayo—they add richness without overpowering the chicken. Honey mustard brings a sweet, zesty kick, while garlic aioli adds depth with its creamy, savory notes. For something unexpected, try a spicy sriracha-lime blend. Each dip enhances the flavor in its own way, making every bite more exciting. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite, and don’t be afraid to mix flavors for a custom twist!
Side Salad Options
While I’m all about crispy fried chicken tenders, I know they’re even better when paired with fresh, vibrant side salads. A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing is always a hit, or you can keep it light with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. I love a creamy coleslaw for its cool contrast, or a tangy cucumber salad for a revitalizing bite. Sometimes, I’ll toss together a simple garden salad with whatever veggies I have on hand. These salads add brightness and balance to the meal, making every bite feel just right.
