There’s something undeniably delightful about fried chicken tenders that brings back childhood memories of family dinners and weekend picnics. Imagine the golden exterior giving way to tender, juicy meat, paired with a crispy crunch that beckons you for just one more bite. For me, these Homemade Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders are a journey down memory lane, reminding me of those sunny afternoons spent at my grandmother’s house, where the air was filled with the aroma of frying bread and spices.
Using the tangy goodness of sourdough breadcrumbs not only adds depth to these chicken tenders but also evokes the rustic flavors of home-cooked meals. Let me take you through this cooking adventure that everyone will love and remember!
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Active Cooking: 15-20 minutes
- Total Duration: 45-50 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fats: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders hit the sweet spot between comfort food and gourmet treat. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they are perfect as a simple weeknight dinner or as a standout dish for your next gathering. The use of sourdough breadcrumbs elevates them beyond your average tender, and I promise they’ll be a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Plus, the blend of spices gives them a flavorful kick that’s hard to resist!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Embarking on this recipe doesn’t just yield fried chicken – it brings the family together in the kitchen. In just a few strategic steps, you’ll have a plateful of these tenders ready to devour, creating the kind of moments that resonate around the dinner table. Let’s dive into the wonderfully satisfying world of homemade fried chicken!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup sourdough bread crumbs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Method:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This buttermilk bath will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor, ensuring every bite is succulent and juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This flavorful coating will help create that irresistible crunch you know and love.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Coat the marinated chicken tenders in the flour mixture, then dip them back into the buttermilk. Finally, coat each tender in the sourdough bread crumbs. This three-step process adds layers of flavor and crunch!
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough by dropping in a small piece of bread – if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders
Fry the chicken tenders in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Monitor them closely to achieve that perfect color and texture.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, drain the tenders on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them hot for that unbeatable crispy goodness!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These chicken tenders are fantastic on their own, but you can serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch. Pair them with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad for a complete meal. A chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea is also the perfect accompaniment for this delicious dish!
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crunchiness.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- If you’re short on buttermilk, you can sour regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to one cup and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.
- For an extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture and sourdough crumbs!
- Keep the oil temperature consistent for even frying—too low and they become greasy; too high and they burn.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to spice things up with additional herbs or spices according to your taste! Consider adding cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders? Absolutely! Just cut them into strips and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- What if I don’t have sourdough bread crumbs? You can substitute regular bread crumbs or panko, but you’ll miss that unique flavor!
- Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, spray them lightly with oil and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Why is my coating not sticking? Ensure you coat with buttermilk after the flour mixture; this helps the crown of crumbs adhere fantastically!
- How do I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a delicious gluten-free version.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it! Homemade Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders that are sure to make lasting memories at your dining table. Whether it’s a casual family night or an exciting gathering with friends, these tenders are bound to steal the show. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a weekly tradition! Grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
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Homemade Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious chicken tenders coated in sourdough breadcrumbs, perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup sourdough bread crumbs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the marinated chicken tenders in the flour mixture, dip them back into the buttermilk, then coat with sourdough bread crumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and consider pairing with fries or a salad.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
