Homemade Chicken Tenders
If you want a fun and easy meal that whips up quick, you have to make these Homemade Chicken Tenders. They are perfect for family dinners, game days, or even as a tasty snack. The crispy exterior combined with tender chicken makes them irresistible. Plus, they are simple enough to prepare any night of the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With a total time of just 18 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These tenders are loved by both kids and adults alike, making them ideal for family gatherings.
- Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices or dipping sauces to suit your taste preferences and create your unique twist.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken and cooked in oil, these tenders can be a healthier alternative to fast-food options.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can easily double the recipe for leftovers or meal prep for the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create the best Homemade Chicken Tenders, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wire rack
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring that your chicken cooks perfectly without burning.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
- Whisk: Helps blend the wet ingredients thoroughly for an even coating on your chicken.
- Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the tenders while keeping them crispy.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken tenderloins
– 1 cup all purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons hot sauce
– Oil for frying
How to Make Homemade Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, add the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix together well and set aside. In another medium-sized bowl, add the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. Whisk together until fully combined.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour about 3 inches of oil into a heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven. Bring it up to temperature over medium-low heat until it reaches around 325°F.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken Tenders
While the oil is heating, dredge each chicken tender by placing it one at a time into the flour mixture. Coat each tender well and shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, place it back into the flour mixture and coat well again. Pat down on each tender to form a good crust.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Once the oil is ready, carefully place each tender into the hot oil without crowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 3–5 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown and crispy. Place them on a wire rack while you fry the remaining tenders.
Enjoy your delicious Homemade Chicken Tenders!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Tenders
Serving Homemade Chicken Tenders is a fun way to please the entire family. These tenders are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and sauces can elevate your meal.
Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice for dipping that adds a creamy flavor.
- Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, this sauce complements the crispy chicken.
- BBQ Sauce: Smoky and rich, perfect for those who enjoy a bold flavor.
Salads
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs well with the crunch of the tenders.
- Coleslaw: Creamy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of fried chicken.
- Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vegetables offers a healthy contrast.
Wraps and Sandwiches
- Chicken Tender Wrap: Roll tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a tasty wrap.
- Tender Sandwich: Place tenders on a bun with pickles and mayo for an easy sandwich option.
How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Homemade Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken tenders will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Double Dredge for Crunch: For an extra crispy coating, dip each tender in the flour mixture twice.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 325°F helps achieve that golden brown crust without burning.
- Do Not Crowd the Pan: Frying in batches ensures even cooking and helps maintain oil temperature.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Tenders
Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Chicken Tenders can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic side that everyone loves. Season them with your favorite spices for added flavor.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides a comforting addition that complements the crunch of chicken tenders.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and freshness to your plate.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans offer a hearty side that pairs well with fried foods.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier twist on fries; their sweetness contrasts nicely with savory chicken tenders.
- Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious option that adds color to your meal while balancing out richer flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Chicken Tenders can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that may affect their quality. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Fry in batches for better results.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season the flour or buttermilk can make your tenders bland. Always add spices for great flavor.
- Not Checking Temperature: Failing to monitor the oil temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Inadequate Coating: Rushing through the dredging process may leave patches of flour. Ensure each tender is well-coated for a crispy crust.
- Using Low-Quality Oil: Choosing an unsuitable oil can affect taste and smoking point. Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Homemade Chicken Tenders crispy?
To achieve crispy homemade chicken tenders, ensure they are well-coated with flour and fried at the correct oil temperature.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to create your own homemade chicken tenders.
What sauces pair well with Homemade Chicken Tenders?
Common sauces include ranch, barbecue, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce. They add flavor and variety!
How long do Homemade Chicken Tenders take to cook?
Cooking typically takes around 6-10 minutes total, depending on thickness and oil temperature.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Chicken Tenders are not only quick and easy but also a delicious meal option loved by all. With various seasoning options and sauces available, you can customize them to suit any taste preference. Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner!
Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Homemade Chicken Tenders! Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this easy recipe is ideal for family dinners, game days, or a delicious snack. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these flavorful chicken strips that everyone will love. Customize them with your favorite spices or dipping sauces for a personal touch. Enjoy the delightful crunch and savory taste of homemade tenders that beat any fast-food option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp hot sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 325°F.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip in buttermilk mixture, then coat again in flour.
- Fry tenders in batches for 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
