How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders Fast
If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful meal that comes together quickly, Southern Fried Chicken Tenders are your perfect go-to. This beloved dish combines juicy chicken strips with a golden, crunchy coating, delivering mouthwatering comfort food in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual snack, learning how to make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders fast will elevate your kitchen game and satisfy those fried chicken cravings effortlessly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe lets you enjoy homemade fried chicken quickly without sacrificing flavor.
- Crispy Crunch: The secret breading mix creates a perfectly crispy crust that holds its crunch bite after bite.
- Juicy Inside: Tender chicken stays moist and juicy, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you probably already have, making it approachable for any home cook.
- Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for dinners, parties, or game day snacks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the balance right between the coating and the chicken is key, and these simple ingredients each play an important role in building the signature crunch and flavor of Southern Fried Chicken Tenders.
- Chicken tenders: The star of the dish, these small strips of chicken breast cook quickly and evenly.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderizes the chicken while helping the coating stick perfectly.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the base for a crispy, golden crust that defines this classic recipe.
- Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper): These spices give the coating a warm, flavorful kick without overpowering the chicken.
- Cooking oil: Choose a high smoke point oil such as vegetable or peanut oil for frying to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Variations for Southern Fried Chicken Tenders
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily it adapts to your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have in your pantry. Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own.
- Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for an extra layer of heat.
- Gluten-free option: Swap all-purpose flour with rice flour or gluten-free blend to suit gluten sensitivities.
- Herb-infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the breading for a fresh twist.
- Baked version: For a lighter option, bake the tenders at 425°F until golden and crispy.
- Panko crust: Incorporate panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by soaking the chicken tenders in buttermilk seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. This step tenderizes the meat and adds flavor, ensuring juicy results after frying.
Step 2: Mix the Breading
In a shallow dish, combine the flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour mix will give your tenders their classic golden brown coating.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Remove each tender from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. For an extra thick crust, dip again in buttermilk and flour.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour about 1 to 2 inches of oil into a heavy skillet and heat it to 350°F. This temperature is ideal for frying without burning the breading.
Step 5: Fry the Tenders
Carefully add the coated chicken tenders to the hot oil. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once fried, transfer the tenders to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot for the best crispy texture.
Pro Tips for Making Southern Fried Chicken Tenders
- Use a thermometer: Check oil temperature to maintain a steady 350°F for even cooking and browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to avoid steaming the tenders and losing crispiness.
- Pat dry chicken first: Removing excess moisture helps the breading adhere better.
- Let them rest: Allow tenders to rest on a wire rack before serving to preserve crunch.
- Double dredge: For an extra crispy crust, repeat the dipping and coating process before frying.
How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish and enhance its flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Southern Fried Chicken Tenders with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or crispy French fries to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve tenders on a platter with an array of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, spicy ranch, or BBQ sauce to make your meal interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preserving flavor and texture for quick meals later.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze tenders on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F on a wire rack to restore crispiness without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, chicken breasts can be cut into strips and used, but tenders are naturally more tender and cook faster.
Is buttermilk necessary for the recipe?
Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and aids in the breading adhering, but a yogurt or milk mixture with lemon juice can be a substitute.
How do I make the tenders extra crispy?
Double dredging the chicken and frying at the right temperature ensures an extra crispy crust every time.
Can I bake the tenders instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking at a high temperature with a light spray of oil will give you a healthier but still crispy alternative.
What dipping sauces pair well with Southern Fried Chicken Tenders?
Classic honey mustard, spicy ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy garlic aioli complement the flavors wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
Southern Fried Chicken Tenders offer an unbeatable combination of crispy coating and juicy meat that makes for a speedy, satisfying meal any day of the week. With these simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be cooking up a homemade favorite everyone will love. Give this recipe a try—it’s comfort food perfected!
