Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders with Honey Butter offer a perfect balance of crispy, savory chicken and a rich, sweet finishing touch. The tender chicken is marinated in buttermilk to ensure juiciness, then coated in a seasoned breading and fried to golden perfection. Paired with a drizzle of homemade honey butter, these tenders make for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring there’s enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the honey and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until warmed through.
- Drizzle the honey butter over the fried chicken tenders and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400-450 per serving (3-4 tenders)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 10-15g
The Buttermilk Marinade: The Key to Tenderness
The key to making these chicken tenders so tender is the buttermilk marinade. Buttermilk acts as a tenderizing agent, helping to break down the proteins in the chicken while adding a slight tanginess that complements the fried exterior. Marinating the chicken for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld and penetrate deeply, ensuring that every bite is flavorful. The buttermilk also creates a bit of a sticky surface, which helps the breading adhere better, leading to that perfect crunchy crust.
Why the Right Seasoning Matters
The seasoning blend used in the buttermilk marinade plays a significant role in the overall flavor of the chicken tenders. A combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper creates a balanced flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it. These seasonings are subtle but effective, allowing the crispiness of the breading and the richness of the chicken to shine through.
The Perfect Coating: Crispy and Flavorful
Once the chicken is marinated, it is time to coat the tenders. The flour mixture plays a pivotal role in creating that irresistible golden-brown crunch. By adding a bit of baking powder to the flour, the coating becomes lighter and crispier once fried. A touch of cayenne pepper (optional) adds a little heat to the breading, giving the tenders an extra kick without overwhelming the flavor.
Frying Technique: Achieving the Ideal Crisp
Frying the chicken tenders is where the real magic happens. The oil temperature must be just right for the tenders to cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the chicken cooks through; if it’s too cold, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintaining an oil temperature of around 350°F is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
How to Prevent Greasy Chicken
To prevent the chicken from becoming greasy, it’s essential to avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Overcrowding lowers the temperature of the oil, causing the chicken to absorb more oil than necessary. Frying the tenders in batches ensures that each piece has enough space to cook evenly and achieve a crispy, non-greasy exterior. Additionally, letting the cooked chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate helps to absorb any excess oil.
The Role of Honey Butter
While the crispy chicken tenders are delicious on their own, adding honey butter takes them to the next level. The sweet, creamy honey butter melts over the hot tenders, infusing them with a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken. The honey butter not only enhances the taste but also adds a glossy finish that makes the tenders even more irresistible. The key to the perfect honey butter is to melt the butter gently and stir in the honey until the mixture is smooth and slightly warm.
How to Serve These Chicken Tenders
These buttermilk fried chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a simple meal, pair them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. They also make for an excellent addition to sandwiches or wraps. Drizzle a bit of honey butter on top, or serve the honey butter on the side for dipping. These tenders are also perfect for meal prepping, as they reheat well and maintain their flavor and texture.
Pairing with Dipping Sauces
While honey butter is an excellent choice for dipping, you can experiment with different sauces to suit your preferences. A tangy barbecue sauce, a creamy ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can elevate the flavor of the tenders. The versatility of this dish allows for endless possibilities, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your dipping sauces.
Serving Sizes: How Much to Make
When serving these buttermilk fried chicken tenders, consider the number of people you are feeding. Typically, one serving consists of 3 to 4 tenders, depending on their size. If you’re hosting a larger gathering or making this dish as a family meal, you might want to double the recipe to ensure everyone gets enough. If you’re looking to stretch the meal further, serve it with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
Health Considerations
While this dish is undeniably delicious, it’s important to recognize that it’s a fried food, which means it’s higher in fat and calories compared to other cooking methods. However, by using vegetable oil with a high smoke point and controlling the frying temperature, you can minimize the amount of oil absorbed by the chicken. Additionally, you can always serve the tenders with a side of vegetables or a salad to balance out the meal. If you’re looking to make this dish lighter, consider baking the tenders instead of frying them, although the result may not have the same crispy texture.
Variations for Different Diets
For those following a gluten-free diet, the flour used in the breading can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend. There are also alternatives like almond flour or chickpea flour that can give the tenders a unique flavor while still creating a crispy crust. For a healthier option, you can experiment with baking or air-frying the tenders instead of deep-frying them. While the texture may differ slightly, they will still be delicious and a better option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.
A Dish for All Occasions
Buttermilk fried chicken tenders with honey butter are a versatile dish that works well for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a game-day party, these tenders are sure to be a hit. They can also be served at a potluck or as a snack for a crowd. The ease of preparation and the comforting nature of the dish make it suitable for any time you’re craving something satisfying and delicious.
The Importance of Resting the Chicken
After frying, it’s important to let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring that each bite is moist and tender. If you serve the tenders immediately after frying, the heat might cause the juices to escape, leading to drier chicken. Resting the chicken also gives the honey butter time to soak into the tenders, enhancing the overall flavor.
Making Ahead and Storing
These chicken tenders can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. If you plan to make them in advance, cook the tenders as usual and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Fry
Frying chicken to perfection is an art that takes practice. The key is to monitor the temperature of the oil carefully. A kitchen thermometer can help you maintain the ideal frying temperature. If you’re frying without a thermometer, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready. This simple test ensures that the oil is hot enough to create a crispy coating without absorbing too much grease.
Why These Tenders Are a Family Favorite
These buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a family-friendly meal that everyone can enjoy. Kids love the crispy exterior and juicy chicken, while adults appreciate the balance of flavors and the ease of preparation. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. The simple ingredients and cooking techniques make it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels.
Budget-Friendly Meal
Despite its delicious taste, this dish can be quite budget-friendly. Chicken tenders are often less expensive than other cuts of chicken, and the ingredients for the buttermilk marinade and honey butter are simple and inexpensive. By preparing this dish at home, you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken tenders without breaking the bank. It’s a great option for families looking for an affordable, homemade meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Tips for a Crispy Coating
To achieve the crispiest coating possible, ensure that the chicken is well-coated with the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken gently to ensure it sticks. Avoid shaking off excess flour before frying, as the extra flour helps create a thicker, crispier crust. Additionally, try not to disturb the chicken too much once it’s in the hot oil, as this can cause the coating to break apart.
A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer or Main Dish
These buttermilk fried chicken tenders with honey butter can be served as either an appetizer or a main dish, making them versatile for any occasion. As an appetizer, serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy. As a main dish, pair them with sides like mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a refreshing salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buttermilk fried chicken tenders with honey butter are a simple yet delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy, tender chicken, crispy breading, and sweet honey butter makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. With a little attention to detail in the preparation and frying techniques, you can create chicken tenders that rival those from any restaurant. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or snack, these tenders are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
