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Chicken tenders have earned their place as a beloved staple in households across the globe. Whether you're dining out at a family-friendly restaurant, enjoying a casual picnic, or serving a quick weeknight dinner, chicken tenders are a go-to choice for people of all ages. Their appeal lies not just in their tender meat but also in their delightful crispy texture and rich flavor, which can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary.

Golden Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate recipe for Crispy Golden Chicken Tenders that will elevate your mealtime experience! These delicious tenders are not only packed with flavor but also boast a perfect crunchy texture. Learn the secrets of marinating in buttermilk for tenderness and creating a seasoned coating that seals in moisture. Ideal for family dinners or casual snacks, these tenders can be paired with a variety of dips and sides for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for all ages, they bring a touch of comfort to any table!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken breast, sliced into tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor and tenderness.

    Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.

      Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a pinch of flour into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

        Dredge the Chicken: Remove the tenders from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.

          Fry the Tenders: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

            Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help maintain their crispiness.

              Serve: Serve the chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.

                Prep Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 4