Name: Super Crispy Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 2 large eggs, whisked; Neutral oil for frying (canola, peanut, or vegetable)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect balance of juicy chicken inside and a crispy golden coating outside.
Budget-friendly since you can cut chicken breasts into strips instead of buying tenderloins.
Family-friendly and great for dipping into sauces.
Multiple cooking options: deep-fry, oven-bake, or air-fry.
Works for dinner, appetizers, or game day platters.

Super Crispy Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 large eggs, whisked
Neutral oil for frying (canola, peanut, or vegetable)

Directions

Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk and hot sauce for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Prepare a flour mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
Coat the chicken directly from the marinade into the flour mixture.
Dip the coated chicken into whisked eggs, then coat again in the flour mixture for a thick, craggy crust.
Heat oil in a deep pan and fry chicken tenders until golden brown and fully cooked.
Place cooked tenders on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Swap buttermilk for plain yogurt mixed with a little milk.
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour for spicier tenders.
Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
Try seasoning with Italian herbs, Cajun spice, or lemon pepper for different flavor profiles.
Make baked tenders by coating with cooking spray and baking at 400°F until golden.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the coating.
Freeze cooked tenders by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is not dried off before coating. The buttermilk marinade helps the flour stick.

Can I use chicken tenderloins instead of breasts?

Yes, tenderloins work perfectly and require less cutting.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours works well for extra tenderness.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken tenders?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as canola, peanut, or vegetable oil, are best.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate for a few hours before frying. Fry just before serving for the best crunch.

Do I need to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk is ideal, but you can substitute with milk plus a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I freeze uncooked breaded chicken tenders?

Yes, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

What sauces go best with these tenders?

Classic choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, buffalo, or a simple ketchup dip.

Conclusion

Super Crispy Chicken Tenders are the ultimate homemade comfort food. With their crunchy coating and juicy inside, they’re perfect for dinner, parties, or satisfying a fast-food craving without leaving home. Try them fried, baked, or air-fried, and don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces.

Lily