These crispy buttermilk fried chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food that will take you straight back to childhood. Juicy strips of chicken are marinated in tangy buttermilk, coated in a well-seasoned flour mixture, and fried until perfectly golden and crunchy. This timeless recipe is simple yet irresistible—ideal for weeknight dinners, family get-togethers, or packing into a back-to-school lunchbox. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat that both kids and adults will love. Whether served with dipping sauces or as part of a hearty meal, these fried chicken tenders are bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

• Place chicken tenders in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.

• In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).

• Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

• Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.

• Carefully place the coated tenders into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

• Transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrients

• Calories: 320 per serving

• Protein: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 17g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 70mg

• Sodium: 420mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This buttermilk fried chicken tender recipe stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and family-friendly appeal. Unlike overly complicated fried chicken methods, this one relies on pantry staples and a straightforward process. The buttermilk marinade is a key highlight—it not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy, seasoned coating. The final texture—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside—is exactly what makes fried chicken so beloved.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile and adaptable. You can spice it up with cayenne pepper or keep it mild for younger palates. It’s also an excellent make-ahead dish for parties or weeknight dinners. Once fried, the tenders can be kept warm in the oven or even reheated later without sacrificing too much of their crunch. Whether you’re making this for a weekend meal or a back-to-school lunchbox, these tenders are consistently satisfying and guaranteed to disappear fast.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients in this recipe aren’t just delicious—they each serve a purpose in building the ideal fried chicken experience. Buttermilk is acidic and works wonders for breaking down proteins in the chicken, leaving the meat moist and tender. It also helps the flour coating adhere better, ensuring a more even fry.

Flour is the backbone of the crunchy coating. When mixed with the right balance of spices—like paprika, garlic, and onion powder—it creates a flavorful crust that’s deeply satisfying. Spices like cayenne add a subtle heat, which you can adjust to suit your preference. Salt and pepper, though basic, are essential to bring out all the other flavors.

Using vegetable oil for frying ensures an even and high-temperature cook without adding any overpowering flavor. And finally, chicken tenders themselves are lean, easy to cook, and beloved by all age groups, making them perfect for this quick and comforting dish.

Cooking Tips

To achieve maximum crunch and flavor, a few tips go a long way. First, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for as long as you can—overnight if possible. This ensures deep tenderness and flavor penetration. Make sure to bring the chicken to room temperature before frying so that it cooks evenly.

When coating the chicken in flour, press down firmly. This helps the flour stick well and creates those beloved crispy ridges. Also, don’t skip resting the coated chicken for a few minutes before frying; it allows the coating to adhere better and minimizes flour loss in the oil.

Use a thermometer to monitor your oil temperature—350°F (175°C) is ideal. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool, and the chicken will absorb excess oil and turn greasy. Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much.

After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. If you’re making a large batch, keep them warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to serve. Reheating leftovers in an oven or air fryer also helps maintain the crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken tenders are a hit on their own but even better when paired with the right sides and sauces. For a classic combo, serve them with French fries or potato wedges and coleslaw. Add biscuits or cornbread on the side for a southern-style feast.

If you’re looking for something lighter, try them with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. You can also slice them up and use them in wraps, tacos, or on top of a hearty salad. They make an excellent base for school lunches—just pack them in a thermos or lunchbox with a small container of dipping sauce like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.

For a fun appetizer twist, cut the tenders into smaller pieces before frying and serve them as chicken nuggets with a variety of sauces. They’re also fantastic party food, served hot and fresh on a platter.

Conclusion

Buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a true crowd-pleaser, combining nostalgic comfort with satisfying flavor and texture. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for gatherings, this recipe delivers time and time again. The crisp, golden coating encases juicy, flavorful chicken that’s irresistible to both kids and adults.

With simple ingredients and a method that’s easy to master, these tenders fit seamlessly into your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard barbecue, sneaking a few into a back-to-school lunchbox, or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these chicken tenders never disappoint. Their versatility, deliciousness, and universal appeal make them a must-have recipe in your kitchen arsenal.