Spring Picnic Fried Chicken Tenders

Short Description

Spring Picnic Fried Chicken Tenders are a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. Marinated in a flavorful buttermilk mixture and fried until golden brown, these tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and served with a tangy honey mustard sauce for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the comfort of classic Southern-style fried chicken with the ease of a handheld picnic snack. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor, while the seasoned flour coating adds a satisfying crunch. Whether served hot or at room temperature, these tenders are a hit for any outdoor event, lunchbox, or casual dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Tenders:

• Chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips
• Buttermilk
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Tabasco sauce
• All-purpose flour
• Paprika
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• Honey
• Mustard

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a few dashes of Tabasco. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
   In one bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Remove the chicken from the marinade.
3. Coat the Chicken:
   Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally back into the flour. Place on a tray until ready to fry.
4. Fry the Tenders:
   Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken tenders in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate.
5. Finish in the Oven (Optional):
   For extra crispiness and to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, place tenders on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
   Mix honey and mustard in a small bowl. Adjust proportions to taste.
7. Serve:
   Serve tenders warm or at room temperature with honey mustard sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–5
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight marinating)
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes (excluding marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix or more hot sauce to the marinade.
• Herbed Coating: Mix in dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if preferred.
• Baked Only: For a lighter version, skip frying and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let chicken cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a slightly juicier texture.

Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?

Overnight marination provides the best flavor and tenderness, but even 2–3 hours will still yield good results.

Can these tenders be baked instead of fried?

Yes, they can be baked at 425°F for 20–25 minutes. They won’t be as crispy but will still taste great.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for frying.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, they can be fried ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness before serving.

How do I keep them crispy at a picnic?

Let them cool on a wire rack before packing in a ventilated container to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze them?

Yes. Freeze cooked tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until hot and crispy.

What dipping sauces go well besides honey mustard?

Ranch, barbecue sauce, sriracha mayo, or even a garlic aioli pair well with these tenders.

How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear when cut.

Can I skip the eggs in the coating?

Eggs help the flour coating adhere better. If needed, you can substitute with buttermilk or a cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Spring Picnic Fried Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and versatile dish that fits any occasion, from casual picnics to family dinners. With their crispy coating, juicy interior, and tangy dipping sauce, these tenders are bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether served hot or at room temperature, they deliver satisfying comfort and convenience in every bite.

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