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Spring Picnic Fried Chicken Tenders

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  • Author: Sarra
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Celebrate spring with these crispy, golden Spring Picnic Fried Chicken Tenders—perfect for outdoor gatherings or a comforting family meal. Marinated in seasoned buttermilk and fried to perfection, these tenders are juicy on the inside and delightfully crunchy on the outside.​


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 3 tablespoons buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  • In a large sealable bag, combine chicken tenderloins, buttermilk, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Seal and massage to coat. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add 3 tablespoons of buttermilk and stir until the mixture is clumpy.
  • Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  • In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about ¾ inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry chicken tenders in batches, without overcrowding, until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve hot or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauces.​
  • Once Upon a Chef
  • The Seasoned Mom

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper in the marinade.
  • These tenders can be made ahead and served cold, making them ideal for picnics.
  • Pair with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for dipping.​
  • thelemonapron.com

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg​