5 Ways to Make Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders with Buttermilk

When it comes to comfort food, oven-fried chicken tenders rank high on the list. These crispy, golden brown strips are loved by both adults and children alike, but making them at home can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right techniques and a touch of buttermilk magic, you can enjoy restaurant-quality tenders without the need for deep frying. Here are five foolproof methods to create oven-fried chicken tenders that rival any takeout or fast food:

The Classic Approach

The classic method is straightforward, focusing on basic ingredients that bring out the best in chicken tenders:

• 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray or vegetable oil

Steps:

1. Marinate: Place chicken tenders in a bowl with buttermilk for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This helps tenderize and flavor the chicken.
2. Create Dredge: In a separate shallow dish, mix flour with seasonings.
3. Coat: Remove tenders from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture. Repeat if you want an extra crispy coating.
4. Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
5. Bake: Lightly spray with oil or brush with vegetable oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

💡 Note: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Plan ahead for marinating time.

Panko Breaded

Adding panko breadcrumbs into the mix will give your tenders an extra crunchy texture:

• All ingredients from the classic recipe
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

Steps:

1. Marinate: Same as classic approach.
2. Set Up Dredging: Have buttermilk in one dish, a mixture of flour and seasonings in another, and panko in a third.
3. Bread: Coat chicken tenders in flour, then buttermilk, and finally panko, pressing the crumbs to adhere.
4. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange on a baking sheet and spray with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once, until crispy.

Spice It Up

For those who love a kick, spice your chicken tenders:

• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika

Steps:

1. Marinate: Use spiced buttermilk for an extra punch of flavor.
2. Dredge: Add spices to the flour mixture.
3. Bake: Follow the classic baking method, adjusting for heat tolerance.

Whole Grain Crust

Health-conscious individuals can enjoy this recipe:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup rolled oats or crushed corn flakes

Steps:

1. Marinate: Use buttermilk as usual.
2. Coat: Combine whole wheat flour with rolled oats or corn flakes for coating.
3. Bake: Bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through for an even crisp.

Honey Butter Glaze

For a sweet and savory finish:

• ¹⁄₄ cup honey
• ¹⁄₄ cup melted butter

Steps:

1. Prepare Glaze: Mix honey and melted butter.
2. Coat: Follow the classic or Panko breaded approach for coating the chicken.
3. Bake: Once done, brush with the honey butter glaze and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Each method above provides a unique twist to the beloved oven-fried chicken tenders, making your meal preparation a delightful experiment in flavors and textures. Whether you're aiming for classic comfort, a spicy kick, or a health-conscious option, these methods will ensure your tenders are nothing short of phenomenal. The key to success lies in the marinating time, the quality of your ingredients, and the careful attention to baking time and temperature.

How long should I marinate the chicken tenders?

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Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 4 hours, with overnight being optimal for the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I use other coatings for the chicken tenders?

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Yes, you can experiment with different coatings like cornmeal, crushed crackers, or even finely chopped nuts for a unique texture.

Are there any tips for getting the chicken tenders extra crispy?

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For extra crispiness, double-dip the tenders in the buttermilk and then the flour/panko mixture, and make sure to spray or brush them with enough oil before baking.

How do I keep the chicken tenders warm after baking?

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Place them on a wire rack in a low oven at about 200°F to keep them warm without losing their crispiness.

What are some good dipping sauces to serve with oven-fried chicken tenders?

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Traditional options include ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a simple mixture of ketchup and mayo. For a spicy twist, try sriracha mayo.

In wrapping up, oven-fried chicken tenders are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. With these methods, you can cater to different tastes, dietary needs, and even experiment with different flavors. Remember that while each method has its unique aspects, the common thread is the use of buttermilk to infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderize it before baking. Now, it’s time to venture into your kitchen, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful delight of homemade oven-fried chicken tenders.