Southern Fried Chicken Tenders

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating)
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast cut into strips
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Place chicken tenders in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor and tenderness).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour. Press the flour into the chicken to ensure a thick, crispy coating.
5. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
6. Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with creamy coleslaw, biscuits, or mac and cheese for a true Southern comfort meal.
• Pair with honey mustard, ranch, or classic Southern white BBQ sauce for dipping.

Why This Easy Recipe Works

Southern Fried Chicken Tenders are a classic comfort food with a golden, crunchy crust and juicy, flavorful chicken inside. Using buttermilk ensures tender meat, while the seasoned flour creates a crispy coating everyone will love. This is one of those easy recipes that turns an ordinary dinner into a Southern-style feast.

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