Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Craving that irresistible crunch and juicy flavor all wrapped up in bite-sized perfection? Southern Fried Chicken Tenders deliver just that, offering crispy, golden bites that bring the heart of Southern cooking right into your kitchen. This classic recipe is not only delicious but wonderfully simple to make, combining a perfectly seasoned coating with tender, juicy chicken that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners, game day, or a casual get-together, Southern Fried Chicken Tenders are a surefire way to satisfy cravings and create happy moments at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this Southern Fried Chicken Tenders recipe perfect for cooks at any level.
• Crispy Texture: The crunchy, golden coating offers an unbeatable bite that stays crisp.
• Juicy and Tender: Each tender remains succulent and flavorful, thanks to simple brining and careful frying.
• Family Favorite: It’s a classic comfort food that kids and adults alike adore.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this Southern Fried Chicken Tenders recipe balances flavor, crunch, and juiciness beautifully. Each ingredient plays its role, from infusing the chicken with flavor to creating that perfect crispy coating and appealing golden color.

• Chicken tenders: The star of the dish, naturally tender and perfect for frying.
• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds subtle tang while aiding the coating’s adhesion.
• All-purpose flour: Creates the crunchy outer crust essential to the Southern fried texture.
• Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper): These spice essentials bring the signature Southern flavor to the coating.
• Vegetable oil: Ideal for frying because of its high smoke point and neutral taste.

Variations for Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

One of the best things about Southern Fried Chicken Tenders is how easily you can customize them! Depending on your preferences or dietary needs, these classic tenders can be adapted without losing their big flavor punch.

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or crushed cornflakes.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour for an aromatic touch.
• Oven-Baked Option: Bake instead of frying for a lighter version that still delivers crunch.
• Panko Crust: Use panko breadcrumbs in the coating for an extra crispy texture.

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken tenders and patting them dry with paper towels. Then, soak the tenders in buttermilk mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and add flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Flour and Seasonings

Combine all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This seasoned flour mixture is what will give your chicken tenders their classic Southern flavor and crispy coating.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove each tender from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press gently to ensure every inch is coated, and set aside on a wire rack for a few minutes to help the coating adhere better.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), usually about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Using tongs, transfer the fried chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the juices settle and the coating stays crisp.

Pro Tips for Making Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

• Use Buttermilk: It tenderizes the meat and helps the flour coating stick perfectly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
• Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to keep oil at the ideal frying temperature.
• Rest After Frying: Let the tenders rest on a wire rack to keep the coating crunchy and prevent sogginess.
• Double Dredge: For an ultra-crispy crust, dip in buttermilk and flour mixture twice before frying.

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Elevate your plate with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the tenders beautifully.

Side Dishes

The perfect Southern Fried Chicken Tenders deserve some classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or crispy fries. Fresh vegetables or a tangy dipping sauce also work great to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve tenders on a platter lined with parchment paper and accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy aioli. For a fun twist, turn them into sliders or toss them into a salad for added crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate. They keep best for up to 3 days when stored properly to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked tenders individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months and can be reheated as needed.

Reheating

Reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can slice chicken breasts into strips and use them in place of tenders, but keep in mind cooking time might be slightly longer due to thicker pieces.

What is the best oil to fry Southern Fried Chicken Tenders?

Vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal because of their high smoke points and neutral flavors, which help achieve a crispy and golden coating.

Are Southern Fried Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour which contains gluten, but you can swap in gluten-free flour or crushed cornflakes to make them gluten-free.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes in buttermilk is recommended, but for deeper flavor and tenderness, marinate for up to 4 hours in the fridge.

Can I bake Southern Fried Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes works well for a healthier option, though the crispiness might be slightly different from frying.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that combines the best of Southern flavor and that perfect golden crunch, Southern Fried Chicken Tenders are your new go-to. They are quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face at your table. Give this recipe a try, and watch these crispy, tender bites become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.

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