Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders are a beloved favorite known for their crispy coating and juicy, flavorful meat. This recipe guides you through easy cooking tips to recreate those iconic tenders at home with a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a satisfying meal any day of the week, these chicken tenders deliver great taste without complicated steps or ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders
Crispy, golden coating that stays crunchy without being greasy.
Juicy, tender chicken inside every bite.
Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques.
Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces or serving with sides.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, snacks, or casual gatherings.
Can be baked or fried depending on your preference and equipment.
Ingredients for Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders
The Flavorful Essentials for Easy, Delicious Chicken Tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into strips for that perfect tender bite.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and flavor, making the chicken tender and juicy. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and the marinade.
Black pepper: A must-have for a little kick. Freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that complements the chicken beautifully.
Onion powder: This brings a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
Paprika: For a hint of smokiness and a lovely color. You can use sweet or smoked paprika based on your preference.
All-purpose flour: This is what gives the tenders that irresistible crispy coating. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Peanut oil: Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point. If you have allergies, vegetable or canola oil works too.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making those crispy Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal that rivals your favorite fast-food joint.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth. This marinade is the secret to juicy chicken tenders. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat while the spices add flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to let this sit for a moment to let the flavors mingle.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, add your chicken strips to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least an hour, or overnight if you can wait. The longer, the better! This step is crucial for achieving that tender, flavorful chicken.
Step 3: Dredge in Flour
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to dredge. Take a shallow dish and fill it with all-purpose flour. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Then, coat each piece in flour, ensuring it’s fully covered. This flour coating is what gives your tenders that irresistible crunch. For an extra crispy texture, consider double-dipping: back into the buttermilk and then the flour again!
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, pour in the peanut oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F. A good way to test if it’s ready is to drop a small piece of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Now comes the exciting part! Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once your chicken tenders are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether it’s honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch, these tenders are sure to be a hit!
Tips for Success
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Don’t rush the frying; let the oil heat properly for crispy tenders.
Experiment with spices in the flour for a unique twist.
Keep the chicken in a warm oven while frying in batches to maintain warmth.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For mixing the marinade. A mixing bowl works too.
Shallow dish: Ideal for dredging the chicken in flour. A plate can substitute.
Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is perfect for frying, but any large skillet will do.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking doneness. A simple kitchen thermometer works as well.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil. A wire rack can also be used.
Variations
Spicy Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick.
Herb-Infused Tenders: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour for a fresh flavor twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe alternative.
Oven-Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the coated chicken tenders at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier option.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Drizzle honey mustard over the cooked tenders for a sweet and tangy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sides: Pair your tenders with crispy French fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Presentation: Arrange tenders on a platter with colorful veggies for a vibrant display.
Drinks: Enjoy with iced tea or a cold beer to complement the meal.
FAQs about Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make these Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders healthier?
For a healthier option, consider baking the tenders instead of frying. Coat them in the same buttermilk and flour mixture, then bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?
These tenders are delicious with a variety of sauces! Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing are classic choices. You can also try spicy sriracha or a tangy buffalo sauce for a kick!
Can I freeze the chicken tenders after cooking?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken tenders! Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven for a quick meal later on.
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave.
Final Thoughts
Making Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders at home is more than just a cooking project; it’s an experience filled with joy and satisfaction. The aroma of frying chicken fills the kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Each crispy bite transports you back to those carefree days of childhood, where comfort food reigned supreme. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a solo snack, these tenders bring smiles all around. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor the deliciousness. You’ll find that this recipe not only fills your belly but also warms your heart!
Crispy Chick-Fil-A Style Chicken Tenders that are easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup peanut oil (for frying)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Add the chicken strips to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
In a shallow dish, place the flour.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour until fully coated.
In a large skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra crunch, try double-dipping the chicken in the buttermilk and flour before frying.
You can also experiment with different spices in the flour, such as cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
