✔ Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
✔ Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
✅ Letting the seasoning sit for 10 minutes enhances the flavor!
2️⃣ Prepare the Breading Stations
✔ In one bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
✔ In another bowl, mix flour, breadcrumbs, cornstarch, and spices.
✅ Cornstarch makes the tenders extra crispy!
3️⃣ Coat the Chicken
✔ Dip each tender into the flour mixture.
✔ Then dip into the egg mixture.
✔ Finally, coat in breadcrumbs and press firmly for a crispy texture.
✅ Double-coating makes them extra crunchy!
4️⃣ Fry to Perfection
✔ Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
✔ Fry tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
✔ Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
✅ For extra crunch, fry again for 1-2 minutes!
🔥 Alternative Baking Method (Healthier Option!)
✔ Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
✔ Place breaded tenders on a greased baking sheet.
✔ Spray with cooking oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
✅ Crispy & delicious with less oil!
🥣 The Best Dipping Sauces!
1️⃣ Classic Honey Mustard
✔ ¼ cup mayo
✔ 2 tablespoons honey 🍯
✔ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
✔ ½ teaspoon lemon juice 🍋
✅ Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet!
2️⃣ Spicy Sriracha Mayo
✔ ¼ cup mayo
✔ 1 tablespoon sriracha 🌶️
✔ ½ teaspoon lime juice
✅ A fiery, creamy kick!
3️⃣ Garlic Parmesan Dip
✔ ¼ cup sour cream
✔ 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan 🧀
✔ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✅ Rich, cheesy & garlicky!
4️⃣ Classic Ranch Dressing
✔ ¼ cup mayo
✔ ¼ cup sour cream
✔ 1 teaspoon dried dill
✔ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✔ ½ teaspoon onion powder
✅ Cool & creamy—perfect for crispy chicken!
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep crispy.
✔ Freeze for up to 2 months—reheat in the oven for best results!
✅ Avoid microwaving—it makes them soggy!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders!
These Crispy Chicken Tenders are juicy inside, crunchy outside, and absolutely irresistible! Whether fried or baked, they’re a must-try for any crispy chicken lover. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, and they’ll be gone in minutes!
💡 Will you try this recipe? Let me know your favorite dipping sauce! 🍗🔥
