Dive into the world of crispy, tender, and flavorful chicken with these Buttermilk Chicken Tenders. Perfect for both kids and adults, these juicy tenders, marinated in tangy buttermilk and seasoned to perfection, are the ultimate comfort food. Whether it's a casual dinner at home, a picnic, or a game night, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. And the best part? Making them is a breeze.
So, if you're looking for a chicken recipe that'll earn you rave reviews, look no further.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
The Magic of Buttermilk: The key ingredient here is buttermilk. Its natural acidity works wonders on the chicken, breaking down proteins, which results in tender and succulent meat. Moreover, its tangy flavor permeates the chicken, giving it a distinct taste that sets it apart from other marinades. You get chicken tenders that are incredibly tender on the inside while being golden and crispy on the outside.
Simple Yet Flavorful: What's brilliant about this recipe is its simplicity combined with immense flavor. Using just a handful of commonly found ingredients, you can create chicken tenders that burst with taste in every bite. Plus, the golden crust seals the flavors inside, ensuring that every piece is as tasty as the last. It's a foolproof method that guarantees success even for novice cooks, making you look like a pro in the kitchen. So why wait? Give this recipe a go, and let the flavors speak for themselves!
Ingredients
Buttermilk- This tangy milk provides a rich marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken. Substitute: Plain yogurt diluted with a little water.
Chicken tenders- These are the strips of meat found under the breast of the chicken. They're lean and cook quickly.
All-purpose flour - Used for coating the chicken tenders to achieve a crispy exterior. Substitute: Cornstarch or gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Salt- Enhances the flavor of the chicken. You can adjust based on personal preference.
Paprika - Gives the chicken a slightly smoky and colorful touch. Substitute: Cayenne for a spicier kick.
Tips
- Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight) will yield the best results in terms of flavor and tenderness.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying – it should sizzle when you drop a small amount of flour into it.
- Don't overcrowd the frying pan; this can drop the oil temperature and make the tenders less crispy.
- Allow the fried tenders to drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels for optimal crispiness.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning after frying one tender to ensure the rest are perfectly flavored.
How to Serve
Buttermilk chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be the star of a meal or an accompaniment to a larger spread. Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them a favorite among all age groups.
- As a main dish: Serve the tenders on a bed of fresh greens with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
- Party snack: Cut the tenders into bite-sized pieces and provide a range of dips (honey mustard, BBQ, and ranch).
- In a wrap or sandwich: Place a few tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce for a quick lunch.
Similar Recipes
Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 500 ml Buttermilk
- 500 g Chicken tenders
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
Instructions
- In a large bowl, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and paprika.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Dredge each marinated chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Fry the tenders in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (around 3-4 minutes per side).
- Place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight) will yield the best results in terms of flavor and tenderness.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying – it should sizzle when you drop a small amount of flour into it.
- Don't overcrowd the frying pan; this can drop the oil temperature and make the tenders less crispy.
- Allow the fried tenders to drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels for optimal crispiness.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning after frying one tender to ensure the rest are perfectly flavored.