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Plate of crispy buttermilk chicken tenders served with dipping sauce

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Deliciously crispy and juicy chicken tenders marinated in buttermilk and fried to perfection, perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 2 pounds chicken tenders Juicy and tender
  • 1 cup buttermilk For marinating
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt Enhances flavor
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper Add heat to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder For flavor
  • 0.25 teaspoon paprika For color and flavor
For the breading
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Base for the breading
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Helps breading to rise
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
  • 0.75 teaspoon black pepper For added spice
  • 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder For balance of flavor
  • 0.75 teaspoon paprika For extra flavor
  • 3 tablespoons buttermilk To help adhere the breading
  • 3-4 cups vegetable oil For frying

Method
 

Marinate the chicken
  1. Combine chicken tenders with buttermilk and spices in a large sealable bag. Seal tightly and massage to coat evenly.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally up to 24 hours.
Prepare the breading
  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Gradually add buttermilk until a clumpy consistency is reached.
  3. Lay a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for cleanup.
  4. Remove marinated chicken, toss in the breading mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Fry the chicken
  1. Line another baking sheet with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Carefully place several breaded chicken tenders into the oil without overcrowding.
  4. Fry until golden brown on one side, then flip to cook evenly.
  5. Transfer cooked tenders to the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Notes

For extra crispiness, consider double-dipping the tenders after marinating. Letting them sit after breading helps the coating adhere. For more spice, feel free to add extra cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes during the breading process. Enjoy with a variety of dipping sauces.