Crispy fried chicken tenders are a classic Southern dish that can be enjoyed by all ages. The dish is loved for its crispy outer layer and juicy, tender meat inside. A step-by-step guide on how to create the ultimate crispy fried chicken tender has been provided in this article. The recipe calls for ingredients like 1 pound of chicken tenders, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, among others. Tips for preparing the dish have also been outlined, including ensuring the oil is at the right temperature and not overcrowding the skillet during frying.

Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders: A Classic Southern Dish

Introduction

Fried chicken is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Nothing beats the crispy outer layer and juicy, tender meat inside. Chicken tenders are a favorite among younger eaters and can be made just as delicious as their larger counterparts.

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate crispy fried chicken tenders.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients.

• 1 pound of chicken tenders
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of buttermilk
• Oil for frying

Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking.

1. Preheat your oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat up about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare chicken: In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, pour in the buttermilk.
3. Dip chicken: Take each chicken tender and dip it first into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk, and then back into the flour mixture, making sure the tender is well coated on both sides.
4. Fry chicken: Once the oil is heated, carefully place each chicken tender in the skillet or Dutch oven, making sure the tenders aren’t overcrowded. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
5. Remove chicken: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the chicken tenders from the oil and let them cool on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken tenders hot and crispy, with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Tips for Success

– Make sure your oil is at the right temperature. If the oil is too cold, the tenders will be greasy, and if it is too hot, they will burn.
– Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil.
– Don’t overcrowd the skillet or Dutch oven. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the oil and lead to uneven cooking.
– Use a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil from the chicken tenders.
– For an extra-crispy finish, double dip the chicken tenders in the flour mixture and buttermilk before frying.

Conclusion

Crispy fried chicken tenders are a classic Southern dish that can be enjoyed by all ages. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a delicious and crispy batch of tenders at home. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!