Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you have been searching for that ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than the Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe. This dish delivers chicken tenders with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior that crackles delightfully with each bite while locking in juicy, tender meat inside. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors—spiced just right and coated with crushed cornflakes for an extra-special texture twist. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a party snack, these chicken tenders bring pure joy to the table every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a unique role in boosting flavor, texture, or color, creating a harmonious dish that’s more than the sum of its parts. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken to the vibrant spices that infuse each bite, these accessible pantry staples come together effortlessly.

• 1 lb chicken tenders: The star of the recipe—tender, lean, and quick to cook.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderizes chicken for juicy results.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the essential base for the seasoned coating.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a warm, smoky flavor and rich color.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Deepens savory notes for a flavorful crunch.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Balances the garlic with subtle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For a gentle kick that brightens the palate.
• 2 cups crushed cornflakes: The secret to that unbeatable crackling crunch.
• Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil.

How to Make Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken tenders in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is vital because it not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with subtle tang and moisture, ensuring your tenders stay juicy after frying. For an even richer flavor, marinate them overnight in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Seasoning

While the chicken marinates, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. This blend is going to create a deeply flavorful coating that hugs every tender perfectly, bringing a beautiful balance of spice and aroma.

Step 3: Crush the Cornflakes

Pour your cornflakes into a shallow bowl and crush them into bite-sized pieces to maximize surface area. These crunchy bits are the game-changer that gives your tenders that signature crackly crust everyone will rave about.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Preheat your oil in a deep frying pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Proper temperature control is crucial here—it ensures the tenders cook evenly while creating that irresistible crispness without absorbing too much oil.

Step 5: Flour the Chicken

Take each chicken tender out of the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Then, dredge the tender thoroughly in the seasoned flour mix. This layered coating helps the cornflakes stick to the surface and builds a perfect crunchy crust.

Step 6: Coat with Crushed Cornflakes

Next, press each floured chicken tender into the crushed cornflakes, making sure the flakes adhere well on all sides. The crunch factor depends on this step, so don’t be shy about pressing firmly!

Step 7: Fry to Perfection

Carefully place a few tenders into the hot oil without crowding the pan, which could lower the temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The delicious crackling sound is your signal that they are almost ready!

Step 8: Drain and Rest

Use a slotted spoon to transfer your beautiful tenders from the oil onto a paper towel-lined tray. This helps absorb excess oil and keeps every bite crispy, not greasy. Repeat until all tenders are fried.

Step 9: Serve While Hot

Serve your Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe immediately for the best experience. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear in no time.

How to Serve Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chopped chives make the perfect simple garnish, adding a pop of color and a subtle herbal note that brightens these rich tenders. A sprinkle of lemon zest over top can also add an unexpected zing that’s fantastic alongside the savory coating.

Side Dishes

Classic sides like crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad complement the chicken beautifully. For a more indulgent meal, mac and cheese or creamy mashed potatoes provide a luscious balance to the crunchy tenders.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve these tenders on slider buns with pickles and a creamy aioli? Or chop them into bite-sized pieces to top salads or tacos for a fun twist. The crunch and tender inside make this recipe so versatile it can jazz up any meal or snack board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed well preserves moisture while maintaining that crispy texture as much as possible.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these tenders later, freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer first. After they’re frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. This method helps prevent them from sticking together.

Reheating

To reheat and bring back the crunch, bake frozen or refrigerated tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that irresistible crispness intact.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders and follow the recipe the same way, just keep an eye on cooking times as slightly thicker pieces may need a couple extra minutes.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

While it’s not absolutely required, soaking the chicken in buttermilk really improves tenderness and flavor by breaking down proteins. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes makes a noticeable difference.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking is an option to make this recipe a bit lighter. Place coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment and spray lightly with oil. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

What dipping sauces go well with Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe?

Classic choices like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce pair beautifully. For a bold twist, try sriracha mayo or a tangy blue cheese dip to elevate every bite.

Can I prepare the coating ahead of time?

You can mix the seasoned flour and crush your cornflakes a day in advance and store them in airtight containers. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to coat the chicken to preserve their freshness and crunchiness.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Cracked Chicken Tenders Recipe is a true kitchen winner that combines simple ingredients with a delightfully crispy finish and juicy meat inside. It’s comfort food that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll quickly understand why this recipe has become a personal favorite for so many!

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