How to Cook Chicken Tenders at Home That Taste Like Chick-fil-A

Have you ever wondered if it's possible to cook chicken tenders at home that taste just like the ones from Chick-fil-A? The good news is, you can definitely recreate that delicious flavor with a few simple steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing and frying perfect chicken tenders that will satisfy your cravings at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 pound chicken tenders 1 cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)

For Frying:

Peanut oil or another frying oil

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix the buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken tenders and ensure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Breading:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and powdered sugar (if using).

Bread the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.

Heat the Oil:

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of peanut oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Chicken:

Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Drain and Serve:

Remove the chicken tenders and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

Tips for Extra Flavor

Brine the Chicken:

For added flavor and juiciness, consider brining the chicken in a saltwater solution for a couple of hours before marinating. This step can significantly improve the tenderness and flavor of your chicken.

Honey Butter Sauce:

To mimic Chick-fil-A’s signature taste, you can make a honey butter sauce. Mix melted butter with honey and a pinch of salt. Drizzle this sauce over the tenders before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your homemade chicken tenders, perfect for serving with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard to enhance the flavor even more. Whether you're a fan of traditional chicken tenders or something more specialized, these simple steps will help you nail that delicious Chick-fil-A taste at home.