About the Recipe
Dive into the ultimate comfort food with these American-Style Chicken Tenders, a recipe that promises to deliver the perfect blend of crunchiness and succulent chicken in every bite. Designed for dipping and sharing, these chicken tenders are an all-American classic that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces, from tangy barbecue to creamy ranch. Whether you're planning a family movie night, a casual get-together with friends, or simply indulging in a personal treat, this recipe serves up a satisfyingly crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior that's sure to delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
1 pound (about 450g) chicken breast tenders
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
Your favorite dipping sauces (e.g., barbecue, honey mustard, ranch)
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate. This process will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In one shallow dish, place the flour seasoned with a little salt and pepper. In another dish, have the beaten eggs ready. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of paprika and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each tender first in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with the breadcrumbs. Ensure each tender is fully covered at each stage for the perfect crispy coating.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat (the oil should be about ½ inch deep). Once hot, fry the chicken tenders in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a serving platter. Serve hot with an assortment of your favorite dipping sauces on the side for a customizable and fun dining experience.
Chef's Notes:
Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken tenders overnight in the refrigerator.
Cooking Oil: Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve the ultimate crispiness without absorbing too much oil.
Serving Suggestion: For a complete meal, serve these chicken tenders with a side of coleslaw, french fries, or a fresh salad.
Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the coated chicken tenders on a greased baking sheet in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Conclusion:
This American-Style Chicken Tenders recipe is a celebration of simple, delicious comfort food that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for any occasion that calls for finger foods, these chicken tenders offer a satisfying crunch and a tender, flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with an array of dipping sauces. Get ready to dip, crunch, and savor every delicious moment!