Craving the perfect chicken? try our buttermilk fried chicken tender recipe
What To Know
- Carefully place the chicken tenders in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Coat the chicken tenders in the breading mixture and cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Indulge in the tantalizing world of buttermilk fried chicken recipe tenders, where crispy exteriors meet juicy, flavorful interiors. This delectable dish has captivated taste buds for generations, and now you can master the art of creating it in your own kitchen with our comprehensive guide.
Ingredients for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brine the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenders and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and discard the marinade. Dredge the chicken tenders in the breading mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Double Dredge
For extra crispy results, repeat the dredging process by dipping the chicken tenders back into the buttermilk and then into the breading mixture again.
5. Fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken tenders in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve
Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.
Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken: The quality of the chicken will significantly impact the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Don’t overmix the breading: Overmixing can result in tough chicken. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
- Fry the chicken in small batches: Overcrowding the pan or fryer will lower the oil temperature and prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Let the chicken rest before serving: This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.
Variations on Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
- Spicy Tenders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breading mixture for a kick of heat.
- Herb-Crusted Tenders: Mix chopped fresh herbs, such as basil, thyme, or oregano, into the breading for extra flavor.
- Parmesan-Crusted Tenders: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breading mixture for a cheesy twist.
Accompaniments for Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce
- Sides: Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, fries, or cornbread
- Beverages: Iced tea, lemonade, or beer
Healthier Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
- Air-Fried Tenders: Coat the chicken tenders in the breading mixture and cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Baked Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
The Science Behind Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat. The cornstarch in the breading creates a crispy exterior while absorbing excess moisture.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Dining Experience with Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Tenders
Mastering the art of buttermilk fried chicken recipe tenders is a culinary triumph. With our comprehensive guide and tips, you can create delectable, crispy tenders that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones. Experiment with variations and accompaniments to elevate your dining experience and make this dish a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Popular Questions
1. Can I substitute yogurt for buttermilk?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt as a substitute for buttermilk. The lactic acid in yogurt will provide similar tenderizing effects.
2. How long can I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?
You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for up to 24 hours. However, marinating for longer than 12 hours may result in the chicken becoming too tender and falling apart.
3. What is the best oil to use for frying chicken tenders?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all suitable choices for frying chicken tenders. These oils have a high smoke point, which means they can withstand high temperatures without burning.
