Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders

Is there anything more comforting than biting into a perfectly crispy fried chicken tender? That satisfying crunch, followed by juicy, flavorful chicken, is enough to make any day better. Fried chicken tenders are the kind of dish that everyone loves, from kids to adults, and they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, game nights, or any casual get-together.

But what if you could recreate that restaurant-quality crispiness right at home? Yes, it’s entirely possible. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of technique, you can master the art of frying chicken tenders in your own kitchen. Say goodbye to soggy coatings and bland flavors—this recipe will guide you step-by-step to achieve that golden brown exterior and succulent inside.

Why Make Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders at Home?

Fried chicken tenders are a versatile option for any meal. They pair perfectly with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or even mashed potatoes for a more indulgent plate. And the best part of making them yourself? You have complete control over the seasoning, the breading, and the cooking time, ensuring that every piece comes out exactly how you like it.

When you make Crispy Fried chicken tenders at home, you can also avoid the overly greasy versions often found at fast-food restaurants. The key is getting the oil temperature just right—hot enough to cook the chicken through without soaking up too much oil, but not so hot that the outside burns before the inside is fully cooked. It’s all about balance, and with this recipe, you’ll be a pro in no time.

The Secret to That Perfect Crunch

The secret to getting that irresistible crunch lies in the double-coating process. By dredging the chicken in seasoned flour, then dipping it in egg wash before a second coat of flour, you build a thicker, crispier crust that stays put while frying. Letting the breaded chicken rest before frying helps the coating adhere even better, making sure every bite is as crunchy as possible.

Another key factor is the flour mixture itself. While simple, the combination of flour, salt, and pepper is all you need for a classic flavor. You can, however, experiment with additional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne for an extra kick. But this basic version ensures you get the pure, unadulterated taste of juicy fried chicken with every bite.

The Best Type of Chicken for Frying

While you can use whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into strips, opting for chicken tenders makes the process even easier. Tenders are already the perfect size for frying, making them ideal for achieving a uniform cook. They’re also naturally tender and juicy, so you won’t have to worry about dry, tough chicken.

For this recipe, you’ll be using about 2 pounds of chicken tenders. If you’re starting with whole chicken breasts, make sure to slice them into even, 1-inch-thick strips. This ensures they cook evenly in the hot oil, giving you that consistent, golden-brown finish on each piece.

In the next section, you’ll find the exact ingredients and instructions needed to make these chicken tenders a reality. We’ll walk you through the process step by step, from preparing the breading station to frying the tenders to perfection. Let’s get started on crafting your new favorite homemade chicken tenders.

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken tenders (or 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 1-inch-thick strips)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for a perfectly crispy coating.
3/4 teaspoon salt – Adds essential flavor to the coating.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Gives a subtle kick to balance the rich flavors.
1 egg, beaten with 2 tablespoons water – Creates a sticky layer for the flour to adhere to.
Vegetable oil for frying – Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oil Pro Tip: Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution—it helps maintain a consistent oil temperature for perfectly fried chicken.

Fill a 9-inch cast iron skillet or standard deep skillet with about 2 inches of vegetable oil.
Begin heating it over medium-high heat while you prepare the chicken. Aim for an oil temperature of 365-375°F for optimal frying.

Step 2: Mix the Flour Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash

In another large bowl, whisk 1 egg with 2 tablespoons of water until fully combined. This mixture will help the flour adhere to the chicken.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken Pro Tip: Double coating the chicken creates a thicker crust that stays crispy longer.

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, coating it evenly.
Return the chicken to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing gently to help the flour adhere.

Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest Pro Tip: Resting the breaded chicken allows the coating to set, reducing the chance of it falling off during frying.

Set the breaded chicken tenders aside on a plate or wire rack for about 5 minutes before frying.

Step 6: Check the Oil Temperature

Use a candy thermometer to ensure the oil has reached 365-375°F. Alternatively, drop a small pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

Step 7: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add about 5 pieces of chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
Fry until the bottom side is golden brown, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
Flip the chicken using tongs and fry the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 8: Drain the Chicken Pro Tip: Placing the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of directly on paper towels prevents it from getting soggy.

Transfer the fried chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
If needed, sprinkle a little extra salt over the hot chicken to enhance the flavor.

Step 9: Repeat in Batches

Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken tenders, ensuring the oil returns to the correct temperature between batches.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy fried chicken tenders are best served hot, straight out of the fryer. They pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic honey mustard and barbecue sauce to spicy sriracha mayo. For a complete meal, serve them alongside coleslaw, potato wedges, or a fresh green salad.

They’re also great for meal prepping. Allow the tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Fried Chicken Tenders

Keep the Oil Clean: If frying multiple batches, remove any leftover crumbs from the oil to prevent burning and darkening.
Test the Oil: A consistent oil temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Frying too many pieces at once can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to greasy chicken.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 253 kcal
Fat: 4 g
Protein: 24 g

Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these homemade Crispy fried chicken tenders. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

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