The Recipe for Delicious KFC Chicken Tenders
Introduction
Welcome to this step-by-step guide on how to prepare delicious KFC-style chicken tenders right in the comfort of your own kitchen. If you're a fan of the crispy and flavorful chicken tenders that KFC is famous for, then this recipe is for you. With easy-to-follow instructions, you'll be able to recreate the mouthwatering taste of KFC chicken tenders in no time. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this irresistible recipe. So let's dive right in and discover the secret to making these delectable chicken tenders at home.
Ingredients
To make delicious KFC-style chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast fillets
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried thyme
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Buttermilk
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
Make sure you have all these ingredients ready before you start preparing the chicken tenders. Now, let's move on to the next step in the recipe.
Preparation
To make delicious KFC-style chicken tenders at home, you will need to gather a few key ingredients and prepare your cooking area. Follow these steps to ensure a successful cooking experience.
First, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of chicken tenders
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Next, prepare your cooking area by setting up a clean and organized workspace. Clear any clutter and make sure you have all the necessary utensils and equipment within reach.
To begin the preparation process, rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any excess moisture and ensure a crispy coating.
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated tenders on a plate or wire rack.
Once all the tenders are coated, it's time to heat the vegetable oil. Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to cover the bottom by about half an inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary. Cook the tenders for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
And there you have it! Your KFC-style chicken tenders are now ready to be served. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Next, we will move on to the next section of the recipe: "Cooking the Chicken Tenders".
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
To begin the process of making delicious KFC-style chicken tenders at home, the first step is marinating the chicken. This crucial step ensures that the meat is infused with flavor and becomes tender and juicy when cooked.
Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
Next, take boneless chicken breast cut into strips and place them in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each strip is fully coated. Massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure it is evenly distributed.
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the chicken to marinate and absorb the flavors. For the best results, you can marinate the chicken overnight, which will further enhance the taste and tenderness.
During the marinating process, the acidity in buttermilk helps break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful end product. The spices in the marinade add a delicious kick and depth of flavor to the chicken tenders.
Once the chicken has marinated for the desired time, it is ready to be cooked. The marinated chicken can be pan-fried, deep-fried, or even baked depending on your preference and dietary choices. Whichever method you choose, you can be sure that the marinated chicken will yield crispy, flavorful, and succulent KFC-style chicken tenders.
With the first step completed, you are now ready to move on to the next step in creating these mouthwatering chicken tenders.
Stay tuned for Step 2: Dredging and Breading the Chicken.
Step 2: Coating the Chicken
Now that you have marinated the chicken tenders, it's time to move on to the next step: coating them. The crispy, golden exterior is what makes KFC chicken tenders so irresistible, and with this recipe, you'll be able to achieve the same mouthwatering results at home.
To coat the chicken, you'll need a mixture of flour and spices. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.
Now, take one of the marinated chicken tenders and place it in the flour mixture. Use your hands or a fork to press the flour mixture onto the chicken, ensuring that it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken tender aside on a clean plate. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken tenders.
Once all the chicken tenders are coated, it's time to let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the coating to adhere to the chicken and helps to create a crispier texture when fried.
While the coated chicken tenders are resting, you can prepare the frying oil. Fill a deep pot or a Dutch oven with enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken tenders completely. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.
Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, carefully lower the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Be cautious to avoid any splattering or oil burns.
Fry the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. This will ensure that they cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden color. Cook each batch for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the hot oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining coated chicken tenders.
And there you have it! Delicious KFC-style chicken tenders that are crispy, flavorful, and made right in your own kitchen. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Now that the chicken is coated and fried to perfection, it's time to move on to the final step: serving and enjoying your homemade KFC-style chicken tenders.
Step 3: Frying the Chicken
Now that you have prepared the chicken tenders and let them marinate, it's time to fry them to perfection. Follow these simple steps to achieve crispy and flavorful KFC-style chicken tenders.
- Heat the oil: Start by heating a large pot or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil. You want the oil to reach a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer or a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Dredge the chicken: Take each marinated chicken tender and lightly coat it in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess flour before moving on to the next step.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil. Be cautious to avoid overcrowding the pot or fryer, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken tenders in batches, if necessary.
- Cook until golden brown: Allow the chicken tenders to cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color. Make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning. You can use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the chicken tenders.
- Drain excess oil: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, carefully remove them from the hot oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps maintain the crispy texture of the chicken.
- Serve and enjoy: Your delicious KFC-style chicken tenders are now ready to be served! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them as is.
Note: It's important to handle hot oil with caution and use proper kitchen safety measures when frying food. Always keep an eye on the temperature of the oil to ensure it doesn't get too hot or too cold.
Now that you've mastered the art of frying the chicken, the next step is to indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of your homemade KFC-style chicken tenders.
Step 4: Draining and Serving
Once the chicken tenders have reached a golden brown color and are crispy on the outside, carefully remove them from the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place the cooked tenders on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes to cool slightly and crisp up further. This will also help retain their juiciness.
To serve the KFC-style chicken tenders, you can accompany them with your favorite dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. These sauces add an extra burst of flavor that complements the crispy and flavorful chicken tenders perfectly.
Additionally, you can serve the tenders alongside classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of the crunchy chicken tenders with the creamy coleslaw or fluffy mashed potatoes creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Whether you're preparing these chicken tenders for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, they are sure to be a hit. The crispy coating and tender meat make for a mouthwatering bite that will leave everyone craving for more.
So go ahead and give this homemade KFC-style chicken tenders recipe a try. With its easy-to-follow steps and guaranteed delicious results, you'll be able to enjoy the classic taste of KFC right in the comfort of your own home.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your homemade KFC-style chicken tenders:
- Marinade options: Experiment with different marinades to add extra flavor to your chicken tenders. You can try a buttermilk-based marinade or a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an Asian twist.
- Spice it up: If you like your chicken tenders spicy, you can add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the breading mixture. Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference.
- Herb-infused breading: Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the breading mixture for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter, giving your chicken tenders a delightful crunch.
- Air frying: If you want a healthier alternative to deep frying, try air frying your chicken tenders. Coat them with a thin layer of oil and cook them in an air fryer until golden brown and crispy.
- Dipping sauces: Serve your chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces to complement their delicious flavor. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a tangy buffalo sauce.
- Customize the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to suit your taste buds. Add more salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer to make the chicken tenders uniquely yours.
- Serving suggestions: Serve your homemade chicken tenders with classic sides like coleslaw, fries, or mashed potatoes. You can also turn them into a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a quick and satisfying meal.
Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and personal preference. Feel free to adapt the recipe and make it your own by incorporating these tips and variations. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful KFC-style chicken tenders!
Tip 1: Using Buttermilk for Extra Tenderness
One of the secrets to achieving deliciously tender chicken tenders is to marinate them in buttermilk. Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
To begin, you will need about 2 cups of buttermilk for every pound of chicken tenders. Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, making sure they are fully submerged. You can also add some salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. The longer you marinate the chicken tenders, the more tender and flavorful they will be.
When you are ready to cook the chicken tenders, remove them from the buttermilk marinade and allow any excess liquid to drip off. You can discard the marinade as it has done its job.
Using buttermilk in the marinade not only helps to tenderize the meat but also adds a subtle tanginess to the flavor profile of the chicken tenders. This extra step may seem small, but it makes a big difference in the final result.
Now that you have marinated your chicken tenders in buttermilk, you are ready to move on to the next step in the recipe.
Tip 2: Adding Spices for Flavor
To elevate the taste of your homemade KFC-style chicken tenders, you need to infuse them with a blend of flavorful spices. This will give them that signature KFC kick that everyone loves. Here's how you can do it:
- Start with a spice mix: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
- Marinating the chicken: Take your chicken tenders and place them in a large ziplock bag. Add the spice mix to the bag and seal it tightly. Shake the bag vigorously to ensure that the chicken tenders are coated with the spice mix. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, letting it marinate overnight will give the flavors a chance to penetrate the meat even more.
- Preparing the dredging station: In three separate shallow bowls, set up a dredging station. Fill the first bowl with all-purpose flour, the second bowl with beaten eggs, and the third bowl with breadcrumbs. For an extra kick of flavor, you can add some of the spice mix to the breadcrumbs as well.
- Dredging the chicken: Take each marinated chicken tender and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken tender into the breadcrumbs, ensuring a nice, even coating.
- Frying the chicken tenders: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Draining excess oil: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, carefully remove them from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place them on a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serving and enjoying: Serve your delicious KFC-style chicken tenders hot and crispy. They are perfect as a main dish, a party appetizer, or even as a snack. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them as is.
By following these steps and adding the right combination of spices, you can recreate the mouthwatering flavor of KFC chicken tenders right in your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your taste buds with these homemade delights. Enjoy!
Tip 3: Baking Instead of Frying
When it comes to cooking chicken tenders, most people default to frying them. However, if you're looking for a healthier alternative that still yields delicious results, consider baking your chicken tenders instead. Not only does baking reduce the amount of oil used, but it also allows the chicken to retain more of its natural juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful bite.
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking. Next, prepare the chicken tenders as instructed in the recipe, coating them in the seasoned flour mixture. Instead of deep-frying, place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that they are evenly spaced and not touching each other.
Baking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders, but a good rule of thumb is to bake them for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. To test for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the largest tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.
One of the advantages of baking chicken tenders is that you can customize the breading to your liking. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil or brush them with melted butter before baking. This will help them develop a golden and crunchy exterior. Alternatively, if you're watching your calorie intake, you can skip the additional oil and still achieve a tasty result.
Another benefit of baking chicken tenders is that it allows you to easily multitask in the kitchen. While the tenders are baking, you can prepare side dishes or clean up any mess you may have made during the preparation process. This makes it a convenient cooking method for those who want to maximize their time and productivity in the kitchen.
When the chicken tenders are done baking, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and prevent the tenders from becoming too hot to handle. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces or incorporate them into a delicious chicken tender sandwich or salad. The possibilities are endless!
Variation: Spicy Chicken Tenders
If you're a fan of heat and crave some extra spice in your chicken tenders, then this variation is for you. By adding a few simple ingredients, you can transform your regular chicken tenders into a fiery and flavorful delight.
To make spicy chicken tenders, follow the same steps mentioned earlier for preparing the marinade and coating the chicken. Once you have completed those steps, here's what you need to do to add some heat:
- Step 1: Prepare the spicy marinade by combining the following ingredients in a bowl:
- Step 2: Dip each chicken tender into the spicy marinade, making sure it is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Step 3: Once the chicken has marinated, proceed to coat the tenders with the seasoned flour mixture as mentioned in the main recipe.
- Step 4: Fry the chicken tenders in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
The addition of the spicy marinade will give your chicken tenders a kick of flavor that is sure to impress. The combination of cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and other spices adds depth and complexity to the dish.
If you prefer a milder heat, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Adjust the spice level according to your preference to ensure you enjoy every bite.
Serve these spicy chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside some cool and refreshing coleslaw. The contrast of the heat from the tenders and the creaminess of the coleslaw creates a delightful balance of flavors.
So, whether you like it hot or prefer a milder kick, this variation of spicy chicken tenders is a great way to add some excitement to your meal. Enjoy the flavors and savor the deliciousness of these fiery delights.
Conclusion
Start by marinating the chicken tenders in a mixture of buttermilk and spices for at least 30 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Then, coat the tenders in a mixture of flour and seasonings, making sure to press the coating firmly onto the chicken.
Next, deep fry the chicken tenders in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to fry them in small batches to maintain the temperature of the oil and ensure even cooking.
Once the tenders are cooked, let them rest on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy and prevent them from becoming greasy.
Serve the KFC-style chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.
Now, you have the recipe and the knowledge to make mouthwatering KFC-style chicken tenders at home. So why wait? Get in the kitchen and start cooking! Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of homemade chicken tenders any time you want.
Enjoy Homemade KFC Chicken Tenders
Making your own KFC-style chicken tenders at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors right in your own kitchen. With this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to recreate the crispy and flavorful chicken tenders that KFC is known for.
To start, gather all the ingredients needed for the recipe. You'll need boneless chicken breasts, buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and vegetable oil for frying.
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into thick strips, resembling the shape of chicken tenders. This will ensure even cooking and a great texture.
Next, place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. The buttermilk will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. Let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the coating for the tenders. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Once the chicken has marinated, remove each tender from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly.
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the tenders for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Now it's time to enjoy your homemade KFC-style chicken tenders! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. These crispy and flavorful chicken tenders are perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or even as a snack.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can satisfy your cravings for KFC chicken tenders anytime you want, right in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of homemade KFC chicken tenders.
