Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Southern Fried Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that brings crispy, juicy perfection with every bite. This recipe is straightforward yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a delicious homemade meal that rivals your favorite restaurant. With perfectly seasoned breading and tender chicken inside, these Southern Fried Chicken Tenders are sure to become your go-to recipe for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Crispy Crunch: The breading creates a satisfyingly crisp exterior that holds up beautifully without being greasy.
• Juicy Tender Chicken: Marinating and frying techniques ensure the inside stays moist and tender every time.
• Kitchen-Friendly Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples that make this recipe easy to prepare any day of the week.
• Customizable Flavors: Adapt seasoning and spices to suit your personal taste or family favorites.
• Kid-Approved Classic: Loved by kids and adults alike, these tenders make a crowd-pleasing meal sure to get rave reviews.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Southern Fried Chicken Tenders rely on simple yet essential ingredients that contribute to their irresistible flavor, perfect texture, and golden color. Each element plays an important role in achieving that signature Southern fried taste.

• Chicken tenders: Fresh, high-quality strips of chicken breast that provide a tender and lean base.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken for juicy results.
• Flour: The foundation for a crispy coating that crunches with every bite.
• Seasonings: A blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne bring classic Southern flavor and subtle heat.
• Eggs: Acts as a binding agent to help the breading stick properly.
• Oil for frying: Neutral oil like vegetable or peanut oil for frying ensures an even golden crust.

Variations for Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Feel free to get creative with this Southern Fried Chicken Tenders recipe! It’s easy to swap ingredients or adjust seasoning to fit your dietary needs, flavor preferences, or whatever you have on hand.

• Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce to the marinade for tenders with a bold, fiery zip.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary in the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
• Baked Option: For a lighter version, bake the tenders at 425°F until crispy instead of deep frying.
• Buttermilk Substitute: Mix milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl filled with buttermilk and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat and add subtle tang.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Coating

In a shallow dish, combine flour with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will create the signature crispy crust with a spicy Southern flair.

Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. You’ll be dipping each tender in egg, then flour mixture, then egg once more before a final coat of flour to lock in that tough-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside crunch.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Dip each marinated chicken tender first in the egg, then dredge in seasoned flour, back into the egg, and finally coat with flour again. Press the flour mixture firmly for a thicker breading.

Step 5: Heat the Oil and Fry

Heat oil to 350°F in a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove tenders from oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately for maximum crispness and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

• Consistent Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil steady at 350°F for even cooking without sogginess.
• Double Dredging: Dip twice in egg and flour for that unbeatable, crunchy crust everyone loves.
• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: The acidity helps tenderize chicken and adds subtle tanginess just right.
• Rest Before Frying: Let breaded tenders sit for 10 minutes to let coating adhere well, preventing it from falling off during frying.
• Drain Properly: Use a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep tenders crisp without steaming them.

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh taste on top of your Southern Fried Chicken Tenders. For an extra touch, serve with lemon wedges to brighten each bite.

Side Dishes

Traditional Southern sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or crisp green beans pair beautifully with these tenders. For a casual meal, serve with crispy fries or cornbread for a true Southern feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Southern Fried Chicken Tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy ranch, or tangy barbecue. You can also turn them into sliders or wrap them in lettuce leaves for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Southern Fried Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and make for a quick, delicious snack or meal addition.

Freezing

Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen tenders last up to 2 months and are perfect for a quick reheat later.

Reheating

For the best crispiness, reheat leftover tenders in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders and follow the same process for a delicious outcome.

Is buttermilk necessary for Southern Fried Chicken Tenders?

While buttermilk adds great flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice if needed.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 425°F on a wire rack yields a crispier, lower-fat version, though frying delivers the classic texture and flavor.

How do I make the coating extra crispy?

Double-dipping in egg and flour, letting the coated tenders rest before frying, and frying at the right temperature all help achieve a crispy crust.

What dipping sauce pairs best with Southern Fried Chicken Tenders?

Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue, or a spicy aioli—feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of homemade Southern Fried Chicken Tenders fresh from the skillet. This easy, flavorful recipe brings together crispy, juicy chicken that’s perfect for any occasion—and simply begs to be shared. I can’t wait for you to try making this Southern classic and watch how it quickly becomes a favorite in your kitchen!

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