Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe You’ll Crave
This fried chicken tenders recipe gives you golden-brown tenders with a crunchy coating and juicy center—everything you love in a comforting, homemade meal. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for family dinners, parties, or even meal prepping for the week.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Shallow dish (for dredging)
- Wire rack + paper towels
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Kitchen thermometer (recommended)
Ingredients
- 1½ lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1¼ tsp kosher salt divided
- ½ tsp black pepper
- About 3 cups neutral oil canola or peanut
Optional:
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
- ½ tsp dried oregano for herby flavor
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken:
- Whisk buttermilk, egg, and ¼ tsp salt. Add chicken and soak for 15 minutes.
- Prepare Coating:
- Mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, remaining salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Heat Oil:
- Pour oil into a deep skillet. Heat to 350°F.
- Dredge Chicken:
- Dip each tender in flour mix, back in buttermilk, then flour again. Set aside on a rack.
- Fry in Batches:
- Fry tenders 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F inside).
- Drain & Serve:
- Let cooked tenders rest on a rack to stay crispy. Serve hot with sauces or sides.
Notes
Be sure the oil stays close to 350°F for the best results. Always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and flavor.