Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
These Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are juicy, flavorful, perfectly seasoned, and fried until golden brown and crunchy. Marinated in buttermilk for extra tenderness, then coated in a crispy seasoned breading, these homemade chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food recipe for busy weeknights, family dinners, game day, or dipping into your favorite sauces.
The buttermilk helps create tender juicy chicken while the crispy coating fries up beautifully crunchy on the outside. Whether you serve them with fries, ranch, honey mustard, or hot honey, these homemade chicken tenders are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy crunchy coating
- Juicy tender chicken
- Packed with flavor
- Perfect comfort food recipe
- Great for dipping sauces
- Family-friendly dinner idea
Jennie’s Thoughts
There’s just something about homemade fried chicken tenders that feels comforting and nostalgic. These Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are one of those recipes everybody gets excited about because they turn out so crispy, juicy, and flavorful every single time.
The buttermilk marinade makes such a difference because it keeps the chicken tender while helping the breading stick perfectly. I also love that these can be served so many different ways — with fries, mac and cheese, salads, biscuits, or just piled onto a plate with dipping sauces.
Honestly, once you make homemade chicken tenders from scratch, it’s hard to go back to frozen ones.
Here’s What You Need
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Buttermilk Marinade
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Breading
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
How To Make Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Add the chicken tenders and toss until fully coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Mix well.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade.
Dredge each chicken tender into the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating sticks well.
For extra crispy tenders, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and dredge again in the flour mixture.
Place the breaded chicken onto a plate or baking sheet.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot.
Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350 degrees F.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken tenders into the hot oil in batches.
Fry for about 4 to 6 minutes per side or until golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked through.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Repeat with the remaining chicken.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ketchup, or hot honey.
Tips For The Best Fried Chicken Tenders
- Marinate the chicken for maximum tenderness
- Double dredge for extra crunch
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying
- Keep oil temperature around 350 degrees
- Let the breaded chicken rest a few minutes before frying
What To Serve With Fried Chicken Tenders
- French fries
- Mac and cheese
- Coleslaw
- Biscuits
- Potato wedges
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the crispiest texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes. Slice chicken breasts into strips if needed.
Can I air fry these chicken tenders?
Yes. Spray lightly with oil and air fry until crispy and fully cooked.
Why use buttermilk?
Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and creates flavorful crispy coating.
These Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are crunchy, juicy, flavorful, and packed with homemade comfort food flavor. From the crispy golden breading to the tender buttermilk-marinated chicken inside, every bite is perfectly satisfying. Whether you serve them for dinner, game day, or a fun family meal, these homemade chicken tenders are always a favorite.
