Are you craving the crispy, golden goodness of KFC’s famous chicken tenders? You can now make them at home with this easy KFC chicken tenders recipe. It’s simple, quick, and delicious, perfect for satisfying your fast-food cravings without leaving the house.
Ingredients
To make these tasty chicken tenders, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen:
- Chicken tenders
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Buttermilk
- Egg
- Oil for frying
Preparing the chicken
Start by cleaning your chicken tenders under running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in a bowl and pour buttermilk over the chicken. Let them marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to make them extra tender and juicy.
Making the coating
While the chicken is marinating, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. The cornstarch helps give that signature crunch, and the spices add the perfect KFC flavor.
Coating the chicken
After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk. Dip each tender into an egg and buttermilk mixture, then coat it well with the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is fully covered to get that crispy coating.
Frying the tenders
Heat oil in a deep pan or deep fryer to 350°F (180°C). Fry the chicken tenders for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown. Once cooked, place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serving suggestions
Serve your homemade KFC chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard. Pair them with classic sides like fries or coleslaw to complete the meal.
Storing leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or air fryer to keep the tenders crispy.
Tips for the perfect tenders
To ensure your tenders turn out perfectly crispy every time, remember to fry in small batches, use fresh oil, and don’t skip the cornstarch. It’s what gives the chicken that extra crunch!
Why homemade is better
Making KFC-style chicken tenders at home is not only cheaper, but it’s also healthier. You can control the amount of oil and spices used, plus, it’s super fun to recreate this restaurant favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken tenders?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, cut them into strips before coating.
Can I freeze the tenders?
Yes, you can freeze them after frying for up to 3 months.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable or canola oil works best.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.