Description
Golden, juicy chicken tenders marinated in tangy buttermilk, dredged in seasoned flour, and fried until irresistibly crispy—this classic Southern comfort dish is simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders
2 cups buttermilk
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Instructions
- Place chicken tenders in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for more flavor.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from marinade, let excess buttermilk drip off, then coat each tender in the seasoned flour, pressing to ensure it sticks.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the tenders for 5–6 minutes, turning as needed, until golden and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and serve hot with dipping sauces.
Notes
Marinate overnight for extra tenderness and flavor.
Try adding cayenne or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with flour for added crunch.
Can be made gluten-free with a GF flour blend.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes for best crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (+1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
