This recipe creates a tangy, herby, and slightly sweet coating for crispy fried chicken tenders. It’s perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or main dish.
(Serves 4)
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for extra colour)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, avocado or peanut oil)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Coleslaw, fries, or a simple green salad (optional sides)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
2. Prepare the Coating:
3. Coat the Chicken:
Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place the coated tenders on a wire rack or plate and let them rest for 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the chicken tenders in the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
7. Serving:
Arrange the fried chicken tenders on a platter. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve with lemon wedges and the dipping sauce on the side. Add coleslaw, fries, or a green salad if desired.
Tips
- For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Double the dipping sauce recipe if you’re serving a crowd—it’s that good!
Enjoy!