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To make crispy chicken tenders at home, you need a few key ingredients. First, get 1 pound of chicken breast. Cut them into strips. Next, use 1 cup of buttermilk. It helps the chicken stay moist. For the breading, you will need 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of breadcrumbs. I recommend panko for extra crunch.

Crispy Chicken Tenders

Craving crispy chicken tenders that taste like they came from a restaurant? Discover the secrets to making perfectly cooked chicken tenders at home with simple ingredients and easy techniques. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or air fry, you'll achieve that golden, crunchy coating every time. Plus, explore delicious dipping sauce ideas and fun variations to spice things up. Click to dive into this mouthwatering recipe and elevate your chicken tender game!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions
 

In a medium bowl, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

    In a separate bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This will be the dry dredge for the chicken.

      Place the breadcrumbs in another bowl. Using panko will yield a lighter, crispier texture, so use them if available.

        Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Shake off the excess flour.

          Dip the flour-coated chicken back into the buttermilk, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Press down gently to ensure they stick well.

            In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan.

              Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

                Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

                  Serve hot, with your choice of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or a zesty chipotle mayo.

                    - Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins prep | 30 mins cook | 4 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the chicken tenders on a colorful serving platter with fresh herbs sprinkled around and small bowls of assorted dipping sauces for an attractive party-style display.