solsticeuniversity.com – Chicken tenders, often hailed as the quintessential comfort food, have captured the hearts of people all over the world. Whether you’re snacking on them at a casual dinner, serving them as part of a family meal, or enjoying them at a fast food restaurant, there’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden crust that encloses juicy, tender chicken. While they might seem simple to make, the key to the perfect crispy chicken tender lies in the combination of ingredients, preparation techniques, and the all-important frying method. Here’s everything you need to know to create the ultimate crispy chicken tenders at home.
What Makes Chicken Tenders So Irresistible?
Chicken tenders are beloved for their combination of crispy exteriors and tender, juicy interiors. The crispiness comes from the outer coating, which should ideally be crunchy, golden brown, and flavorful. The tenderness is a result of using the chicken tenderloins, which are the softest part of the chicken breast.
But it’s not just the texture that makes chicken tenders so irresistible—the flavor is equally important. The seasoning must penetrate the crispy crust and season the chicken inside, creating a harmonious blend of savory goodness in every bite.
The Key Ingredients for Perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders
To make truly crispy chicken tenders, you need to focus on three key elements: the chicken itself, the coating, and the frying technique.
- Chicken Tenderloins: The foundation of great chicken tenders is, of course, the chicken itself. The tenderloin is the part of the chicken breast that is naturally the most tender, which makes it perfect for a dish like this. Chicken breast can also be used, but tenderloins require less preparation, and their natural texture makes them ideal for frying.
- Marinade or Buttermilk: A key trick to achieving that crispy tenderness is marinating the chicken before coating it. Buttermilk is a popular choice because it helps tenderize the meat while imparting a rich, tangy flavor. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) also ensures that the seasoning sticks better to the chicken and provides additional moisture, preventing the tenders from drying out during frying.
- Coating: The coating is the most important element when it comes to achieving crispiness. For the ideal crust, a combination of flour and cornstarch is often used. The flour creates a solid foundation, while the cornstarch ensures that the coating becomes extra crispy once fried. To add flavor, season the coating with a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and any other spices you love. You can also experiment with panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Egg Wash: An egg wash (a mixture of beaten eggs and a little milk or water) is essential to help the dry coating adhere to the chicken. Dipping each piece of chicken in the egg wash before dredging it in the seasoned flour ensures a thicker, crunchier coating.
- Oil for Frying: When it comes to frying, the choice of oil is crucial. You’ll want an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, to ensure the chicken crisps up without burning. The oil should be preheated to about 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Too hot, and the tenders will burn; too cold, and they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
How to Make Perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s get into the steps to make the perfect crispy chicken tenders.
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken tenderloins and patting them dry with paper towels. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into long strips, making sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together buttermilk, salt, and pepper (you can also add a dash of hot sauce or spices if you like a bit of heat). Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and any other seasonings you desire. If you prefer a lighter crust, you can substitute some of the flour with panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
4. Egg Wash:
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together eggs and a tablespoon of water or milk to create the egg wash.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Repeat with all the pieces.
6. Fry the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy crust, try double-dipping the chicken tenders. After the first coat of flour, dip the tenders back into the egg wash and then dredge them again in the flour mixture.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure that the oil stays at a consistent 350°F. If the oil is too cool, the tenders will absorb more oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked through.
- Use a Cooling Rack: After frying, place the chicken tenders on a cooling rack instead of a paper towel. This helps air circulate around the tenders and keeps them crispy on all sides.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a cheesy crust or toss the fried tenders in a spicy buffalo sauce for a zesty twist.
Final Thoughts
Crispy chicken tenders are the perfect blend of savory, crunchy, and juicy, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, game day, or as a quick weeknight meal, the crispy exterior and tender chicken inside will never disappoint. By following the right techniques and using fresh ingredients, you can make chicken tenders that rival any restaurant’s offering. Plus, with endless possibilities for dipping sauces and seasonings, you can make this dish uniquely your own.
