Homemade Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking for a fun and easy meal that the whole family will adore, you should try these Homemade Chicken Tenders. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, these tenders stand out as a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 18 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The familiar taste of chicken tenders is loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce to suit your family’s preferences for a milder or spicier kick.
- Perfectly Crispy Texture: The double coating technique ensures each tender comes out crunchy and golden brown.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with various dips or sides for an easy meal that fits any palate.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Homemade Chicken Tenders, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven
- Medium-sized mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wire rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution for frying, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken tenders.
- Whisk: Helps combine the wet ingredients smoothly, which is essential for achieving the right batter consistency.
- Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the tenders, keeping them crispy once fried.
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.
- 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 Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, add the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix together well and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until fully combined.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour about 3 inches of oil into a heavy-bottom skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-low heat until it reaches around 325°F.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken Tenders
While the oil heats up:
1. Take each chicken tender and coat it in the flour mixture.
2. Shake off any excess flour.
3. Dip it into the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off.
4. Return it to the flour mixture for another coating. Pat down gently to create a good crust.
Step 5: Frying the Tenders
Once your oil is ready:
1. Carefully place tenders into the hot oil without crowding.
2. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown.
3. Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack while frying remaining batches.
Enjoy your homemade meal!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Tenders
Serving Homemade Chicken Tenders is a delightful experience that brings joy to the dinner table. These crispy, flavorful tenders can be paired with various dips and sides to elevate your meal.
With Dipping Sauces
- Honey Mustard – A sweet and tangy dip that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy and herby, ranch dressing is a classic choice for chicken tenders.
- Buffalo Sauce – For those who like a kick, spicy buffalo sauce adds heat and flavor.
On a Bed of Greens
- Caesar Salad – Serve your tenders atop a fresh Caesar salad for a nutritious twist.
- Mixed Greens – Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich tenders.
As Part of a Platter
- Chicken Tender Platter – Present them with an assortment of sides like fries, coleslaw, and pickles for a fun feast.
- Finger Food Style – Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking during parties or game nights.
How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Tenders
Perfecting your Homemade Chicken Tenders requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh chicken tenderloins for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Maintain Oil Temperature – Keep the oil at around 325°F to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crunch – For an extra-crispy coating, double-dip the tenders in flour and buttermilk before frying.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
- Rest on a Wire Rack – Placing cooked tenders on a wire rack helps maintain their crispness by preventing steam buildup.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Tenders
Pairing your Homemade Chicken Tenders with complementary sides enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options.
- French Fries – Crispy fries are always a favorite side that pairs well with chicken tenders.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of fried chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting side that kids love.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a summer vibe and goes perfectly with fried dishes.
- Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans provide a savory contrast to the crispy tenders.
- Steamed Broccoli – A healthy option that adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Chicken Tenders can be simple, but a few common mistakes can disrupt your cooking process. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your flour mixture can lead to bland chicken tenders. Always mix in spices to enhance flavor.
- Not using buttermilk: Using regular milk instead of buttermilk may result in less tender chicken. Buttermilk adds moisture and flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many tenders in the oil at once can lower the temperature, causing soggy tenders. Fry in batches for best results.
- Underestimating oil temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature will leave your tenders greasy. Aim for around 325°F for crispy results.
- Neglecting resting time: Skipping the wire rack after frying can make them lose their crispiness. Let them rest to maintain that perfect crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Freezing Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags.
- They will last up to 2 months when properly sealed.
Reheating Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for about 10-12 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, turning occasionally for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Homemade Chicken Tenders:
How do I make homemade chicken tenders crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you double-dip the chicken in the flour and buttermilk mixtures before frying.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes! You can slice chicken breasts into strips if tenderloins are unavailable.
What dipping sauces pair well with homemade chicken tenders?
Popular choices include ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a delicious complement.
How do I know when my chicken tenders are done?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or dips based on your family’s preferences. Whether served as a main dish or an appetizer, they are sure to please everyone at your table!
Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Looking for a family-friendly meal that’s both fun and easy to make? Try these Homemade Chicken Tenders! Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these tenders are perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. In just 18 minutes, you can whip up a delicious batch that everyone will love. Customize the spice level to suit your family’s taste, and serve with an array of dips for a delightful dining experience. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
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 teaspoons hot sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In one bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 325°F.
- Dredge chicken in flour mix, coat in buttermilk mix, then re-coat in flour.
- Fry tenders for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
