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Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders

This one-pan wonder brings together simple ingredients for an extraordinary meal.

  • Total Time: 54 minute
  • Yield: 4-6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For Marinating:

  • 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

For Breading:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 eggs

For Frying:

  • Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenders with buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). The buttermilk will help tenderize the chicken and add subtle flavor.
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For maximum flavor, you can marinate overnight. This step is crucial for achieving incredibly tender chicken.
  3. Create a comprehensive breading station using three separate bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second, beat the eggs thoroughly. In the third, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. This ensures the breading will stick properly.
  5. Carefully dredge each tender first in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, making sure it's completely coated. Finally, press the tender into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even, thorough coating.
  6. Prepare for frying by heating about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F – the perfect temperature for crispy, golden-brown tenders.
  7. Carefully add the breaded tenders to the hot oil, working in batches to prevent overcrowding. This ensures each tender cooks evenly and becomes beautifully crisp.
  8. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the exterior turns a deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Author: Jamie
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including marinating)
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes