Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders are a bold and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. These tenders feature juicy strips of chicken marinated in a tangy, spicy buttermilk blend, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and fried until golden and crispy. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, they deliver a satisfying heat in every bite.

• Packed with bold, spicy flavor that appeals to heat lovers
• Crispy, crunchy coating that stays golden and delicious
• Easy to make at home with everyday ingredients
• Customizable spice level to suit your taste
• Great for game day, family dinners, or casual entertaining
• Can be made ahead and reheated without losing texture
• Pairs well with a wide variety of dipping sauces
• A crowd-pleasing option for kids and adults alike
• Can be baked or air-fried for a healthier version
• Freezes well for quick meals later

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken tenders
• Buttermilk
• Hot sauce
• Salt
• White pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Cayenne pepper
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Baking powder
• Black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and white pepper. Add chicken tenders, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour, pressing the mixture onto the chicken to adhere.
4. Let the coated tenders rest on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes to help the coating stick.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry tenders in batches for 4–5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: About 30 minutes (excluding marinating)

Variations

• Baked Tenders: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning once.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Extra Hot: Add chili powder or double the cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Mild Version: Use less hot sauce and omit cayenne for a gentler flavor.
• Sweet Heat: Add a little brown sugar to the flour mix for a sweet-spicy contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.

FAQs

How can I make the chicken tenders less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild hot sauce for a gentler flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, slice boneless chicken breasts into strips and follow the same process.

What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?

Ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard, or a cooling yogurt sauce pair well with the heat.

Can I marinate the chicken longer than overnight?

Yes, up to 24 hours is fine. Longer than that may change the texture of the meat.

What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Use oils with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders?

Yes, freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.

Why is my coating falling off?

Letting the dredged tenders rest before frying helps the coating adhere better.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just fry in batches to avoid crowding the pan.

Are these good for meal prep?

Yes. Cooked tenders keep well and can be reheated for quick meals or snacks.

What can I serve with spicy chicken tenders?

Serve with coleslaw, fries, mac and cheese, or a crisp green salad.

Conclusion

Spicy Breaded Chicken Tenders are the perfect blend of heat, crunch, and savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping for the week, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time. With easy customization options and storage tips, it’s a reliable go-to for any occasion.

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