Description
These Spicy Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and Easy are packed with bold flavors, coated in a perfectly seasoned crispy crust, and can be fried, baked, or air-fried for a delicious, crunchy bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Breading Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For Frying (If applicable):
- 2 cups vegetable oil
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken tenders, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the coating: In another bowl, mix flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Coat the tenders: Remove the chicken from the marinade, coat in the flour mixture, and press firmly to ensure an even crust.
- Cook: Fry in hot oil at 350°F for 4–5 minutes per side, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, or air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes
- Double-dip in flour for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
- Adjust the cayenne to control the spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes