Chick-fil-A Chicken Tenders – Juicy, Crispy, & Flavor-Packed
Chick-fil-A Chicken Tenders are beloved for their ultra-juicy interior, crispy golden crust, and that distinctive Southern flavor. This homemade version nails all the elements: a buttermilk-brined chicken, a seasoned flour coating with a hint of sweetness, and a deep-fried finish that’s crunchy without being greasy.
The secret? Letting the chicken rest in a buttermilk and seasoning mixture, followed by a dredge in flour with powdered sugar—yes, sugar! That subtle sweetness is what sets Chick-fil-A’s tenders apart from the rest.
Want to make it even more authentic? Pair these tenders with a homemade Chick-fil-A sauce or try waffle fries on the side.
Ingredients
🍗 For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne optional, for mild spice
🧂 For the Coating:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
🛢️ For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil preferred for flavor, enough to fill pan about 1.5–2 inches deep
Instructions
🔪 Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and cayenne.
- Add the chicken tenders and coat them thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
🥣 Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, salt, baking powder, paprika, and black pepper.
🧤 Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken to create a thick coating.
- Let coated chicken sit on a wire rack for 10 minutes before frying (helps the breading adhere better).
🍳 Step 4: Fry to Perfection
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack.
Notes
🍟 Serving Suggestions
Chick-fil-A Sauce, honey mustard, or ranch Waffle fries or coleslaw Toasted buttered buns for a tender sandwich Pickles for that classic flavor combo ✅ Tips for Success
Use peanut oil if you want to mimic Chick-fil-A’s exact flavor. Letting the chicken sit after dredging helps the coating stick during frying. For extra crispiness, double dip: back in the buttermilk, then flour again. 📦 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Freeze: Lay uncooked breaded tenders on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag for future frying. ❓FAQs
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, but they won’t be quite as crispy. Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with oil for better browning. 2. What’s the purpose of powdered sugar?
It adds a subtle sweetness—just like Chick-fil-A’s unique flavor. 3. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but add 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice per cup of milk to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. 4. How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne or hot sauce to the marinade and a pinch of chili powder to the flour. 5. Can I air fry these?
Yes! Spray tenders lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway
Chick-fil-A Sauce, honey mustard, or ranch Waffle fries or coleslaw Toasted buttered buns for a tender sandwich Pickles for that classic flavor combo ✅ Tips for Success
Use peanut oil if you want to mimic Chick-fil-A’s exact flavor. Letting the chicken sit after dredging helps the coating stick during frying. For extra crispiness, double dip: back in the buttermilk, then flour again. 📦 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Freeze: Lay uncooked breaded tenders on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag for future frying. ❓FAQs
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, but they won’t be quite as crispy. Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with oil for better browning. 2. What’s the purpose of powdered sugar?
It adds a subtle sweetness—just like Chick-fil-A’s unique flavor. 3. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but add 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice per cup of milk to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. 4. How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne or hot sauce to the marinade and a pinch of chili powder to the flour. 5. Can I air fry these?
Yes! Spray tenders lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway