Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Introduction

There’s something undeniably cozy about the aroma of Buttermilk Chicken Tenders wafting through your home. Picture this: it’s a brisk evening, and you’ve just wrapped up a long day. The kids burst through the door, bursting with energy and stories to share, and all you can think about is creating a comforting meal that brings everyone together. This recipe for Buttermilk Chicken Tenders is not just a quick dinner idea; it’s a heartfelt dish that wraps your family in warmth and love. Trust me when I say, the combination of juicy chicken marinated in tangy buttermilk and breaded to golden perfection is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: Each bite is a delightful explosion of tenderness and crunch, making it an instant favorite.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will be reaching for seconds.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive meal.
• Healthy Option: Swap out frying for baking, and you have a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

• Chicken Tenders – The star of the show! You can use chicken breasts cut into strips if that’s what you have.
• Buttermilk – The key ingredient that tenderizes the chicken and adds a slight tang. No buttermilk? You can make your own by mixing milk with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Flour – For dredging. Opt for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
• Breadcrumbs – Use panko for that extra crunch, or try crushed cornflakes for a fun variation.
• Eggs – Help the breadcrumbs stick nicely to the chicken.
• Spices (e.g., salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder) – These add depth and flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your family’s tastes.
• Oil – For frying or baking. Use olive oil for a healthier option, or canola oil for a traditional approach.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes to marinate)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

In less time than it would take to get takeout, you can have this delightful dish ready. The marinating does take a bit of patience, but trust me, it’s worth every minute!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate Your Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken tenders with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). Your kitchen will smell delightful already!

2. Prepare the Dredging Station: In one bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs, and in a third bowl, place your breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat until all are coated.

4. Cook the Tenders: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tenders in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place on a baking sheet; spray lightly with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce and watch as happiness fills the table.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for some zing!
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use almond flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb mix to suit your dietary needs.
• Festive Touch: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mix for added flavor.
• Meal Prep: Marinate and bread the chicken ahead of time, then store in the fridge for a quick dinner option later.

Serving Suggestions

Picture this: a plate of golden Buttermilk Chicken Tenders sitting next to a fresh garden salad, crispy french fries, or creamy mashed potatoes. Pair with a cold lemonade or a glass of sweet tea for a feel-good family meal. These tenders are not just food; they create memories—perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or simply savoring during quiet evenings at home.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers (which are rare, but it happens!), store the tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.

Pro Tips from the Kitchen

1. Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, allow the tenders to rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to preserve their crispiness.

2. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly opened spices make all the difference. Always check if they’re still potent before use!

3. Air Fryer Option: For a lighter option, air frying the tenders can yield similar crispiness without the added oil.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Absolutely! Just add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to your milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I bake these tenders instead of frying?
A: Yes! Baked tenders are delicious and much healthier. Just ensure they’re well-coated with oil before baking.

Conclusion

Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are more than just a dish; they’re a celebration of comfort, love, and family togetherness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to your dining table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and make this wonderful recipe a part of your food stories. Remember to share your journey with me; I’d love to hear about the smiles these tenders bring to your home!

Contents

• 1 Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
  • 1.2 Method 
  • 1.3 Notes

Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Juicy chicken tenders marinated in tangy buttermilk, breaded to golden perfection, offering comfort and crunch for a satisfying family meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders You can use chicken breasts cut into strips if that’s what you have.
• 1 cup buttermilk You can make your own by mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice.
• 1 cup flour Opt for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Use panko for extra crunch, or try crushed cornflakes for variation.
• 2 large eggs Helps breadcrumbs stick nicely to the chicken.
• to taste spices (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder) Adjust based on your family's tastes.
• 1 cup oil Use olive oil for a healthier option, or canola oil for tradition.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Marinate Your Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken tenders with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
2. Prepare the Dredging Station: In one bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs, and in a third bowl, place your breadcrumbs.

Coating and Cooking

1. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat until all are coated.
2. Cook the Tenders: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tenders in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place on a baking sheet; spray lightly with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Use cayenne pepper for some added zing! Consider almond flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb mix for dietary needs. Add herbs for a festive touch. Marinate and bread ahead for meal prep.