Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful chicken. These tenders are perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or simply as a delicious treat any time of the week. The marination in buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with incredible flavor, making these tenders stand out. With a golden, flaky crust and juicy interior, they are sure to impress at any gathering.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Tenders
• For the Coating
• For the Marinade
• For Frying
• How to Make Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Heat the Oil
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken Strips
• Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders
• Step 6: Drain the Chicken
• How to Serve Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
• With Dipping Sauces
• On a Salad
• In a Wrap
• How to Perfect Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
• Best Side Dishes for Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
• Reheating Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
• What can I serve with buttermilk chicken tenders?
• Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
• How do I customize my buttermilk marinade?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Crispy: The double-dredging technique creates a crunchy coating that holds up beautifully.
• Flavorful Marinade: Buttermilk adds moisture and depth of flavor, ensuring each bite is tender and tasty.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
• Versatile Dish: These chicken tenders can be served with various dipping sauces or as part of salads and sandwiches.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these fried delights, making them a hit for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Deep frying pan
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Paper plates
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: This allows for even heating of oil, ensuring your chicken cooks perfectly without burning.
• Instant-read thermometer: This tool helps you check the internal temperature of your chicken, guaranteeing it’s cooked safely to 165°F.

Ingredients

These chicken tenders feature boneless, skinless chicken breast, marinated in buttermilk, then fried with a flakey, crispy, golden crust to absolute mouthwatering perfection.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

For the Coating

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs

For the Marinade

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbs seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s)
• 1 tbs paprika
• 1 tbs parsley flakes, dried

For Frying

• 2 cups vegetable oil

How to Make Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Cut into strips approximately one inch thick. Place the strips in a bowl with buttermilk and let them sit in the refrigerator for about an hour.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, seasoned salt, paprika, and parsley flakes. In another bowl, beat two eggs until well mixed.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F over medium heat for about five minutes.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Strips

Remove chicken strips from buttermilk. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture one at a time; shake off excess flour. Dip into beaten eggs and let excess drip off; then return to flour mixture. Set aside on a paper plate until all strips are coated.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Carefully place coated chicken tenders into hot oil. Fry for about 3–4 minutes before flipping each piece over for another 3 minutes or until they are golden brown. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Drain the Chicken

Once cooked through, carefully remove chicken from oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Enjoy serving your Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders!

How to Serve Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are not just a meal; they are a delightful experience. Whether you’re enjoying them for dinner or serving them at a party, here are some tasty ways to serve your Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A creamy and tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and savory, this sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, buffalo sauce brings heat and zest.

On a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Top a classic Caesar salad with sliced chicken tenders for added protein.
• Garden Salad: Fresh greens, veggies, and chicken tenders create a colorful and nutritious meal.

In a Wrap

• Chicken Tender Wrap: Place tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a quick meal.
• Buffalo Chicken Wrap: Spice things up by adding buffalo sauce and blue cheese in your wrap.

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How to Perfect Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Achieving the perfect chicken tender is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure your Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh buttermilk and spices enhance the flavor significantly.
• Marinate Overnight: For even more tender meat, marinate the chicken overnight in buttermilk.
• Control Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F for the crispiest finish. Use a thermometer if needed.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can result in soggy tenders.
• Let Them Drain: Place cooked tenders on paper towels right away to remove excess oil.

Best Side Dishes for Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Complementing your chicken tenders with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that pair well with your Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy side that balances the richness of fried chicken.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice that everyone loves with chicken tenders.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort alongside crispy chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds freshness and color to your plate.
5. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements savory flavors beautifully.
6. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread serves as an excellent vehicle for dipping sauces.
7. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy option provides balance and enhances your meal’s nutritional value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken tenders turn out perfectly.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: A short marination time can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to let the chicken sit in buttermilk for at least an hour for maximum flavor.
• Using Cold Oil: Frying in cold oil can result in greasy chicken tenders. Always heat your oil to 350°F before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy crust.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to keep the oil hot and ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the Double Dredge: A single coating may not give you that desired crunch. Dredging twice—once in flour and again after egg—creates a thicker, crispier coating.
• Not Checking Internal Temperature: Undercooked chicken is unsafe. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your tenders reach 165°F internally.
• Inconsistent Sizing: Unevenly cut chicken strips can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for even thickness when cutting for uniform results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Freezing Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

• Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure they are well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place tenders on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and reheat for about 5 minutes on each side until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders.

Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just note that it may require slightly longer cooking time due to the added fat and skin.

What can I serve with buttermilk chicken tenders?

These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce along with sides like fries or coleslaw.

Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour to enjoy gluten-free buttermilk chicken tenders.

How do I customize my buttermilk marinade?

Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Experimenting will help you find your ideal taste!

Final Thoughts

The Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different spices or serve them alongside various sides. Perfect for dinner or as a snack, this recipe is one you won’t want to miss!