Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Make restaurant-style chicken tenders at home! This Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe offers a delightful crunch and rich flavors that are sure to impress. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual gatherings, these tenders are not only easy to make but also use everyday ingredients available in your pantry. The secret ingredient? Dill pickle juice! It adds a unique tanginess that elevates the dish to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – The combination of corn starch and flour creates an incredibly crunchy coating that holds up well during frying.
• Flavorful Marinade – Soaking the chicken in dill pickle juice infuses it with flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and delicious.
• Versatile Dipping Options – Pair these tenders with various sauces like BBQ or honey mustard for a delightful twist.
• Quick Preparation – With a total time of just 46 minutes, you can whip up this dish even on a busy weeknight.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a party or a simple family meal, these tenders will be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan – Allows for even cooking and proper temperature control, essential for achieving crispy results.
• Whisk – Perfect for blending ingredients thoroughly, especially when preparing marinades and batters.

Ingredients

Make restaurant style chicken tenders at home! Can you guess what secret ingredient I use to make the CRISPIEST fried chicken tenders? You probably already have a container of it in your pantry!

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 1/2 lbs. chicken tenders (16 tenders or chicken breast cut into strips)
• oil (for frying)

For the Marinade

• 3/4 cup dill pickle juice
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 egg

For the Coating

• 3/4 cup corn starch
• 3/4 cup flour
• 2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/4 teaspoon seasoning salt
• cayenne pepper (pinch)

Optional Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. BBQ sauce
• splash Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice

How to Make Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine dill pickle juice, milk, and egg. Whisk until well blended.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In another bowl, mix together corn starch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, seasoning salt, and cayenne pepper.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and allow excess liquid to drip off before dredging.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken tender into the coating mixture until fully covered.
2. Shake off any excess flour mixture before placing them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Heat Oil

1. In a deep frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders

1. Carefully add coated chicken tenders to hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding.
2. Fry each batch for about 6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
3. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce for an irresistible treat!

Now you have an amazing Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe that will surely become a favorite! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

How to Serve Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy chicken tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy complement that adds flavor.
• Barbecue Sauce: Smoky and rich, perfect for dipping.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, ideal for those who love a classic dip.

As Part of a Meal

• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture pairs well with the crunchiness of the tenders.
• On a Bed of Salad: Add greens for a fresh touch and drizzle with your favorite dressing.
• In a Tortilla Wrap: Roll them up with veggies and sauce for a tasty wrap.

For Kids’ Lunchboxes

• Mini Chicken Tenders Sliders: Serve on small buns with lettuce and mayo for an easy lunch.
• Bento Box Style: Pair with fruit slices and veggie sticks for a balanced meal that kids will love.

How to Perfect Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Achieving the crispiest chicken tenders requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Dill Pickle Juice: Marinating in pickle juice tenderizes the chicken and adds unique flavor.
• Coat in Cornstarch First: This helps create a crispier outer layer when frying.
• Heat Oil Properly: Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the chicken to prevent sogginess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature for even cooking.
• Let Them Rest After Cooking: Allowing them to rest on paper towels helps absorb excess oil.

Best Side Dishes for Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

Pairing sides with your crispy chicken tenders can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing, this side balances out the richness of fried tenders.
2. French Fries: A classic choice; crispy fries complement the tenders perfectly.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn adds a summery feel to your plate.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier twist that’s both sweet and savory.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Adds nutrition and color to your meal while keeping it light.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks make for a delightful side that’s great for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To help you achieve the Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe, avoid these common mistakes:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating chicken tenders can result in bland flavors. Use dill pickle juice to enhance taste and tenderness.
• Using the Wrong Oil: Choosing an oil with a low smoke point may lead to burnt tenders. Opt for oils like canola or peanut that can handle high heat.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many tenders at once lowers the oil temperature, making them soggy. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at too low a temperature can make the coating greasy. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
• Not Letting Tenders Drain: Allowing fried tenders to sit in oil will make them soggy. Place them on paper towels immediately after frying to absorb excess oil.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Bake on a lined tray for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and warm tenders for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

What makes these chicken tenders crispy?

The combination of corn starch and flour creates a light yet crunchy coating when fried properly.

How can I customize this Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the coating mix for added flavor. You can also try different dipping sauces!

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! For baked chicken tenders, coat them as instructed and bake at 425°F (220°C) until golden brown and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

The Crispiest Chicken Tenders Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can enjoy it with various dipping sauces or customize it with your favorite seasonings. Give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of homemade crispy chicken tenders!