Chick-fil-A Chicken Tenders – Juicy, Crispy, & Flavor-Packed

Introduction

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.

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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

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Directions

🔪 Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and cayenne.
2. Add the chicken tenders and coat them thoroughly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.

🥣 Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. In another bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, salt, baking powder, paprika, and black pepper.

🧤 Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
2. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken to create a thick coating.
3. Let coated chicken sit on a wire rack for 10 minutes before frying (helps the breading adhere better).

🍳 Step 4: Fry to Perfection

1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack.

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🍽️ Servings and Timing

• Servings: 3–4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 30 minutes–4 hours
• Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
• Total Time: ~45 minutes

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🍟 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

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✅ 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.

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📦 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.

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❓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