Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

If you’re craving that golden, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth delight, you’re in for a real treat with Southern Fried Chicken Tenders. This recipe brings together juicy chicken strips coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy crust that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just a cozy night in, these tenders are the ultimate comfort food that everyone will rave about. Get ready to learn how to make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders crispy and flavorful with this easy, step-by-step recipe that guarantees perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy perfection: Every bite delivers a satisfyingly crispy and golden crust that’s never greasy.
• Juicy inside: Tender chicken stays moist and flavorful thanks to the simple marinating process.
• Easy to follow: Straightforward steps make this recipe manageable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: A universally loved dish that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Customizable spice: You control the heat and flavor intensity to suit your taste buds perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses common ingredients, but each plays an essential role in creating that iconic Southern fried flavor, texture, and color. Keeping it simple means you can easily find everything and mix up your own tasty version.

• Chicken tenders: Choose fresh, high-quality strips for the best texture and juiciness.
• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle tang to the flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: Creates the crunchy coating that fries up golden and crisp.
• Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the coating when combined with flour.
• Spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne): These key seasonings give the tenders their signature Southern kick.
• Salt and pepper: Basics for seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.
• Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or peanut oil to achieve the perfect fry.

Variations for Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your cravings or dietary needs. It’s incredibly easy to adapt your Southern Fried Chicken Tenders while keeping that irresistible crispy texture and delicious flavor.

• Spicy variation: Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Buttermilk alternative: Use plain yogurt thinned with a bit of milk if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
• Herb-infused coating: Mix dried thyme or oregano into the flour for a fragrant twist.
• Oven-baked version: After breading, bake the tenders at high heat for a healthier, yet still crispy alternative.

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken tenders in buttermilk spiked with a pinch of salt and a little hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. This step tenderizes the meat and gives it moisture so that each bite is juicy inside the crunchy crust. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and your blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the flour mixture.

Step 3: Dredge the Tenders

Remove tender pieces from the marinade one at a time, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Coat them generously with the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so the crust adheres well. For extra crunch, dip the tenders back into the buttermilk and then coat again for a double layer.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven, and heat it over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer is best to ensure the right temperature for frying. Too cold and the coating will absorb oil; too hot and it’ll burn before cooking through.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry in batches to keep the temperature stable and cook until each side is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Pro Tips for Making Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

• Temperature control: Maintain consistent oil heat around 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt tenders.
• Marinate longer: For extra tender results, marinate the chicken for at least a couple of hours.
• Double dredge: For an ultra-crispy crust, repeat the buttermilk and flour coating step.
• Rest after frying: Let the tenders rest on a wire rack to keep them crispy rather than soggy.
• Fresh oil: Use clean oil for frying to ensure purity of flavor and color in your tenders.

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the chicken tenders to add a fresh pop of color and flavor right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these tenders with classic Southern sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, baked beans, or crispy French fries for a truly satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Southern Fried Chicken Tenders in soft sandwich buns with pickles and honey mustard, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option that still packs flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This preserves their moisture and flavor while preventing sogginess.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooked tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps the coating crisp when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes on a wire rack to restore crispiness without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can cut chicken breasts into strips that resemble tenders, and follow the same marinating and frying process for equally delicious results.

Is it necessary to soak the chicken in buttermilk?

While not required, soaking in buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds moisture, making your Southern Fried Chicken Tenders extra juicy and flavorful.

What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, to achieve the perfect crisp without burning.

How can I make these tenders gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour while keeping the rest of the recipe the same.

Can I bake Southern Fried Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Yes! Baking at a high temperature after breading gives a healthier option that’s still crispy and tasty, though the texture differs slightly from deep frying.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the secrets to perfect Southern Fried Chicken Tenders, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and enjoy this finger-licking favorite. Crispy on the outside, incredibly juicy on the inside, and packed with so much flavor, these tenders are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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