Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal. With their tender, juicy chicken marinated in rich buttermilk and coated in a crispy, golden crust, these tenders are perfect for family dinners, game day, or even as a satisfying snack. Their irresistible flavor and texture make them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – Simple steps mean you can whip these up quickly, even on busy weeknights.
• Crispy & Flavorful – The buttermilk marinade ensures each bite is bursting with flavor and tenderness.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy them as a main course or serve them with dipping sauces for a fun appetizer.
• Family Favorite – Even the picky eaters will love these chicken tenders, making them a hit for all ages.
• Customizable – Feel free to experiment with spices or sauces to create your own twist on this classic recipe.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure that your chicken tenders turn out perfectly crispy every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Plastic wrap
• Meat mallet
• Mixing bowls
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan – This allows for even cooking and keeps oil at the right temperature for crispy tenders.
• Plastic wrap – Helps flatten chicken evenly without making a mess.
• Meat mallet – Ensures uniform thickness in chicken pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

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

Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

Coating

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs

Marinade

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

Frying Oil

• 2 cups vegetable oil

How to Make Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken breasts between 2 pieces of plastic wrap.
2. Pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. Cut into strips about an inch thick.
4. Place in a bowl with buttermilk, cover, and refrigerate for about an hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

1. In a large bowl, combine:
2. flour
3. seasoned salt
4. paprika
5. parsley flakes
6. In another bowl, beat two eggs.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

1. In a deep frying pan, heat oil to about 350°F (medium heat for about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Bread the Chicken Strips

1. Remove chicken strips from buttermilk.
2. Dredge each strip in flour mix; shake off excess.
3. Dunk into beaten eggs; let excess drip off.
4. Return to flour mix; set aside on a paper plate until complete.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders

1. Carefully place coated chicken tenders into hot oil.
2. Fry for about 3-4 minutes; flip and fry another 3 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Check internal temperature; it should be 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

1. Carefully remove chicken from oil and drain on paper towels.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your delicious Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders!

How to Serve Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a movie night, serving them right can elevate the experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the crispy crust perfectly.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, buffalo sauce adds heat and flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch is a classic choice that pairs well with fried chicken tenders.

Create a Sandwich

• Chicken Tender Sandwich: Place the tenders on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious sandwich.
• Wrap It Up: Use a tortilla to wrap the tenders with fresh veggies and dressing for an easy-to-eat meal.

Serve with Salads

• Tossed Salad: Add sliced chicken tenders on top of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
• Caesar Salad: Upgrade your Caesar by adding crispy tenders instead of traditional grilled chicken.

Accompany with Fries

• Classic French Fries: Serve alongside crispy fries for a satisfying meal.
• Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries balances the savory flavors of the chicken tenders.

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How to Perfect Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

To achieve the best results with your buttermilk chicken tenders, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least two hours for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F to ensure even cooking and avoid soggy tenders.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature and ensure crispiness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and high-quality oil enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked tenders to rest on paper towels briefly before serving; this keeps them crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

No meal is complete without delicious sides. Here are some perfect pairings for your best damn buttermilk chicken tenders.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy side that adds freshness and texture to your meal.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavor of chicken, making it an ideal choice.
3. Baked Beans: Rich and hearty beans provide a comforting contrast to crispy chicken.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser alongside fried chicken.
5. Potato Salad: A cool potato salad balances the hot, crispy tenders nicely.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort food goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the best damn buttermilk chicken tenders, knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing the recipe itself.

• Using cold chicken – Cold chicken can result in uneven cooking. Always allow your chicken to come to room temperature for more consistent frying.
• Skipping the marination – Failing to marinate can lead to dry tenders. Make sure to soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least an hour for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Not preheating the oil – Cooking in oil that’s not hot enough will make your tenders greasy. Heat the oil to 350°F before adding the chicken for a crispy crust.
• Overcrowding the pan – Placing too many tenders in the pan can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to maintain that ideal heat.
• Neglecting internal temperature – Not checking doneness can result in undercooked chicken. Always ensure your tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

• Allow tenders to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

• Oven – Preheat oven to 400°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the best damn buttermilk chicken tenders.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well too. They add extra flavor and juiciness.

How do I make gluten-free buttermilk chicken tenders?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to create crispy gluten-free tenders.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

How spicy are these best damn buttermilk chicken tenders?

The recipe is mild, but you can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade or breading mix if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

These best damn buttermilk chicken tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different spices or dips according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!