Golden Fried Chicken Tenders -

In the vast realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival the irresistible charm of crispy chicken tenders. These golden bites are not merely a culinary delight; they are a staple in many households, cherished for their crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Whether served as a playful snack for children or a delectable meal for adults, chicken tenders hold a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many. This article will take you on a journey to create your own Crispy Golden Delight Chicken Tenders at home, sharing essential ingredients, techniques, and serving suggestions that elevate this classic dish to new heights.

Golden Fried Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate comfort food with homemade Crispy Golden Delight Chicken Tenders! This article guides you through creating the perfect tender bites with a crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Learn the importance of marination using buttermilk, explore essential spices for flavor, and master the ideal coating for that satisfying crunch. With serving suggestions and dipping sauce ideas, your chicken tenders can be a delightful snack or a centerpiece meal for any occasion. Cook and enjoy a delicious bite of nostalgia!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp dried thyme

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, ensuring they're fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Prepare the Coating:

- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give the tenders their crunchy, golden coating.

Heat the Oil:

- In a large skillet or deep pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1/2 inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small pinch of the coating mixture into the oil; it should sizzle.

Coat the Chicken:

- Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drips off. Dredge each tender in the coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer. Shake off any excess coating and set aside.

Fry the Chicken:

- Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry in batches if necessary, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Drain and Serve:

- Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy:

- Serve your crispy golden chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. Enjoy this crunchy treat!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr 30 mins | 4 servings