Looking for the ultimate comfort food? You’ve found it! Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip deliver crispy, tender bites of joy. In this post, I’ll guide you through every step to create this delicious dish from scratch. We’ll cover ingredients, cooking methods, and even tips for perfecting your tenders. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering recipe! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chicken Tenders
To make these tasty chicken tenders, you need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
These ingredients give the tenders a juicy inside and a crispy outside. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken. The garlic and onion powders add great flavor. The paprika gives it a nice color and a bit of warmth.
Ingredients for Honey Mustard Dip
For the sweet honey mustard dip, you will need:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
This dip is creamy and sweet, with a tangy kick. The honey balances the mustard's sharpness. You can adjust the flavors to your liking. Add more honey for sweetness or more mustard for a bold taste.
Optional Garnishes
To make your dish look even better, consider these garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh rosemary
Adding fresh herbs gives a nice touch. They brighten the plate and add a pop of color. You can place them around the chicken or on top for a beautiful finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Start by making the marinade. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This mixture gives the chicken great flavor and helps it stay juicy. Add the chicken tenders and coat them well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, let it marinate overnight for extra taste.
Preparing the Dredging Mixture
While the chicken marinates, prepare the dredging mixture. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ cup of cornstarch. This blend creates a crispy crust. Stir well to mix them evenly and set aside for later use.
Heating the Oil
Now it's time to heat the oil. In a large skillet or deep fryer, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer helps ensure the right temperature. This step is key for crispy chicken.
Dredging the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Let the excess buttermilk drip off each tender. Then, dredge each piece in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Make sure to cover each tender evenly. A thick coating gives you that crunchy texture.
Frying the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil. Do this in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes. Look for a golden brown color. Turn them occasionally for even cooking. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Making the Honey Mustard Dip
While the chicken fries, you can make the honey mustard dip. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup honey, 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess based on your preference. This dip pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack lined with paper towels. This helps drain excess oil. Serve the crispy chicken tenders on a rustic board. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley. Place the honey mustard dip in a small bowl on the side. This makes for an inviting display and a delicious meal.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Crispy Chicken Tenders
To get crispy chicken tenders, start with a good dredging. Mix flour and cornstarch equally. This mix helps create a crunchy crust. When frying, do not overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for even cooking. Cook each tender until golden brown. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Always check that the chicken's inside is fully cooked. The right temperature is 165°F (75°C).
Best Oil for Frying
For frying, I recommend using vegetable oil. It has a high smoke point. This means it won’t burn easily. Canola oil is another good choice. Both oils give a nice flavor and crispiness. Avoid using olive oil because it burns at lower temperatures.
Marination Time Recommendations
Marinating is key to flavor. I suggest at least 1 hour in the fridge. If you have more time, marinate overnight for deeper flavor. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken. It also adds moisture. This step is crucial for juicy tenders.
Variations
Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
To spice things up, add heat to your chicken tenders. Mix in cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade. You can start with 1 teaspoon of cayenne. Adjust according to your taste. This adds a fiery kick that balances well with the honey mustard dip. Serve these spicy tenders with cooling sides, like coleslaw or cucumber salad.
Baked Chicken Tenders Option
If you prefer a lighter option, try baking the chicken tenders. Follow the same marinating steps. Instead of frying, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. After dredging the chicken, place them on the sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The result? Crispy, healthier tenders that still taste great.
Alternative Dipping Sauces
While honey mustard is a classic, feel free to explore other dips. For a zesty twist, create a sriracha mayo by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha sauce. For a tangy option, try a yogurt ranch dip. Mix plain yogurt with ranch seasoning for a fresh flavor. Each dip adds a new layer of taste to your chicken tenders.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Chicken Tenders
To keep your chicken tenders fresh, let them cool down first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, avoid stacking them too much. You can also layer them with paper towels to absorb extra moisture.
Reheating Instructions
When it's time to eat those yummy leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until they are hot and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer. Just heat it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them nice and crunchy.
Freezing Chicken Tenders
For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can use regular milk, but it won’t be as rich. Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor. It also helps tenderize the chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, add one tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes. This creates a quick substitute.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut into a tender. The meat should be white, and the juices should run clear.
Can I make the honey mustard dip in advance?
Yes! You can make the honey mustard dip ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. It tastes even better after sitting for a few hours. This allows the flavors to blend. You can keep it in the fridge for up to one week.
What can I serve with buttermilk fried chicken tenders?
These tasty chicken tenders pair well with various sides. Try serving them with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. You can also add some corn on the cob for a fun touch.
How long can I store fried chicken tenders?
You can store leftover fried chicken tenders in the fridge for up to four days. Keep them in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
You’ve learned about the key ingredients for tasty chicken tenders and honey mustard dip. I shared step-by-step instructions to make the perfect meal. We explored tips to get that crispy texture and discussed fun variations. Plus, I provided storage tips to keep leftovers fresh.
Now, you can impress friends and family with your cooking skills. Enjoy making these chicken tenders and let your creativity shine!
