Homemade Chicken Tenders
If you want a fun and easy meal that whips up quick, you have to make these Homemade Chicken Tenders. This delightful dish is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even game day snacks. Everyone loves the crispy exterior and juicy interior of these tenders, making them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they are incredibly versatile; serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside fresh veggies for a balanced meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 18 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken tenders.
- Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party snack. Pair with salads or dips for extra flavor!
- Customizable Flavor: Add your favorite spices or marinades to create unique versions of homemade chicken tenders.
- Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes are used in this recipe, making it simple to whip up and clean up afterward.
Tools and Preparation
To successfully make Homemade Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wire rack (for cooling)
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution for frying, preventing burning and ensuring a golden crust.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture when blending wet ingredients like buttermilk and eggs.
- Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off cooked tenders while keeping them crispy.
Ingredients
If you want a fun and easy meal that whips up quick, you have to make these Homemade Chicken Tenders. The whole family will love them.
For the Chicken Tenders
- 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 Mixtures
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix together well and set aside.
2. In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until fully combined.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Place about 3 inches of oil into your heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven. Bring the oil up to temperature over medium-low heat. The oil should reach around 325°F before frying.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken Tenders
While the oil is heating:
1. Take each chicken tender one at a time.
2. Dredge it in the flour mixture until well coated and shake off any excess flour.
3. Dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Return it to the flour mixture for another coating, patting down to form a good crust.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Once the oil is hot:
1. Carefully place tenders into the oil without crowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
2. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown and crispy.
3. Transfer cooked tenders onto a wire rack while frying remaining pieces.
Now you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Homemade Chicken Tenders!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Tenders
Homemade chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and impress your family and friends.
With Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of chicken tenders.
- Honey Mustard: The sweet and tangy flavor complements the savory taste of the tenders.
- Buffalo Sauce: For those who like a spicy kick, buffalo sauce adds heat and flavor.
In a Sandwich
- Chicken Tender Sandwich: Place your chicken tenders on a toasted bun, add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a hearty meal.
- Wrap It Up: Use a tortilla to wrap the tenders with fresh veggies and dressing for an easy-to-eat option.
On a Salad
- Crispy Chicken Salad: Slice the tenders over a bed of greens with your choice of dressing for a light yet satisfying dish.
- Caesar Salad Twist: Add chopped homemade chicken tenders to a Caesar salad for an extra protein boost.
As a Snack
- Party Platter: Serve homemade chicken tenders as part of an appetizer platter at parties alongside various dips.
- Kids’ Snack Time: Offer them as finger food for kids with their favorite dipping sauces.
How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Tenders
To ensure your homemade chicken tenders come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tenderloins will yield better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
- Keep Oil Temperature Steady: Maintain oil temperature around 325°F to achieve that golden-brown crust without burning.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch: For a thicker coating, dip the tenders in the flour mixture twice after soaking in buttermilk.
- Pat Dry Before Coating: Ensure the chicken is dry before dredging it in flour; this helps the coating stick better.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Tenders
Homemade chicken tenders pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic side that complements the tender’s crunchiness perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of fried chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese is always a hit, providing comfort alongside your tenders.
- Steamed Broccoli: For a healthier option, serve steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs nicely with homemade chicken tenders for a delightful summer meal.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide another tasty alternative to traditional fries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Chicken Tenders can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Always season your flour mixture well. A lack of seasoning can lead to bland chicken tenders.
- Not using buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and flavor. If you skip it, your tenders may turn out dry.
- Crowding the pan: Frying too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy results. Cook in batches for the best texture.
- Ignoring oil temperature: Ensure your oil is at 325°F before frying. Too hot means burnt outsides and raw insides; too cool results in greasy tenders.
- Overcooking the chicken: Always check the internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking makes them tough and dry.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Homemade Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Homemade Chicken Tenders crispy?
To achieve crispy tenders, ensure they are coated thoroughly with flour and fried at the right oil temperature.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own homemade chicken tenders!
What sauces go well with Homemade Chicken Tenders?
Dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing complement homemade chicken tenders perfectly.
How can I spice up my Homemade Chicken Tenders?
You can add spices like paprika, cayenne, or even Italian herbs to your flour mixture for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Chicken Tenders are not only easy to make but also loved by everyone. You can customize them with different seasonings or dips based on your taste preferences. Try making this recipe today for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy!
Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re looking for a delicious, quick meal that the whole family will adore, these Homemade Chicken Tenders are the answer. This easy recipe yields crispy, golden-brown tenders with a juicy interior, making them a favorite for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or game day snacks. Customize them with your preferred dipping sauces or serve alongside fresh veggies for a balanced meal. In just 18 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s not only simple to prepare but also leaves minimal cleanup afterward.
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-bottom skillet to 325°F.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip in the buttermilk mixture, then coat again in flour.
- Fry tenders in batches for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
