Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders (Printable)

Juicy chicken strips marinated in buttermilk and fried until golden, for irresistibly crisp bites.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders

→ Marinade

02 - 1 cup buttermilk
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder

→ Breading

07 - 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
08 - 1 teaspoon paprika
09 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
10 - 1 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ For Frying

12 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying

# Method:

01 - Combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until evenly blended.
02 - Submerge chicken tenders into the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and flavor meat.
03 - Stir together flour, paprika, baking powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
04 - Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge chicken pieces thoroughly in seasoned flour mix, pressing to adhere coating.
05 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to a depth of 2 inches. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
06 - Carefully place coated chicken tenders into hot oil without overcrowding. Fry in batches for 4–6 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through.
07 - Transfer fried tenders to a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately while crisp.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses budget-friendly ingredients you already have at home
  • The chicken stays juicy thanks to a tangy buttermilk soak
  • Extra-crispy crust with real crunch
  • Way tastier and healthier than any drive-thru version
02 -
  • High protein with kid-friendly appeal
  • Makes perfect picnic or lunchbox leftovers
  • Marinate ahead for extra convenience
03 -
  • Always marinate longer for juicier chicken and more developed flavor
  • Keep your oil at the right temperature for even browning and non-greasy results
  • Double dredge is the magic step for craggy crave-worthy crunch

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