Delicious Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders have become a favorite among many who want to enjoy a healthier alternative to fried chicken. This versatile recipe is simple and easy to follow, allowing you to prepare a delightful dinner for your family or friends.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Peanut oil for frying (optional)

To prepare the chicken tenders, you will need to start by making your batter. Combine two cups of all-purpose flour with one tablespoon each of salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl.

Next, add one half cup of buttermilk to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth. The mixture should be neither too thick nor too thin; it should have a consistency similar to pancake batter. If necessary, adjust by adding more buttermilk or additional flour until you reach your desired thickness.

Once prepared, set aside the batter while you slice the chicken breasts into strips. Aim for about 1-inch-thick cuts. You can cut across the grain of the meat for even cooking; this method helps prevent overcooking the outside of the tenders before the inside is fully cooked.

Coat each piece of chicken in the batter, making sure to cover it completely. Let excess batter drip off and place the coated pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Repeat this process until all chicken breasts are coated and placed into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frying.

This step is important because refrigeration allows the coating to set, which results in crisper tenders when you cook them later on. During the chilling time, prepare your cooking equipment by filling a large skillet with about two inches of peanut oil and heating it until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

For optimal results, fry chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding which can cause them to steam rather than brown. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully add coated pieces into the skillet ensuring not to crowd too many at once. Fry until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through cooking.

The total cooking time for one batch of chicken tenders will be around 5-7 minutes depending on your oven temperature and how big each piece was cut. After they’re done frying, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving immediately.

Enjoy!

This deliciously crispy Chicken Tenders recipe is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Serve it with dipping sauces such as honey mustard or ranch dressing for added flavor. If you're looking to incorporate some fresh vegetables into your meal, consider serving these alongside some steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.

Chicken tenders are perfect for those who want something light yet flavorful without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re hosting friends and family or preparing dinner for yourself, this recipe will provide comfort and satisfaction. Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor according to your preferences!