The Best Crispy Fried Battered Chicken Tenders (2024)

This is one of our all-time favorite recipes for Battered Chicken Tenders. Picture this: crispy, golden-brown chicken strips that are oh-so-tender inside and full of flavor!

Yes, I’m talking about these amazing Battered Chicken Tenders! This easy recipe will remind you of those delicious chicken tenders from your favorite diner, but now you can make them right at home.

I think it goes without saying that these chicken tenders were a huge hit with my daughter. I mean, they’re chicken tenders, right?

The real win was with my husband, Jeremy. He kept saying, “wow”, as he ate them. Ha! Apparently he was really surprised at how juicy and crunchy they were. “They’re better than the restaurant!” He said.

You might not know that a homemade chicken tender recipe can be just as good as any professional version. You can get crispy chicken strips any time with the right ingredients and instructions, and that’s what this recipe will do for you!

My advice here is to cook up a big batch. Whoever you serve them to is going to eat more than you guess. They’re just that good!

Our recipe today calls for a skillet on the stove. However, if you have a deep fryer, then all the better!

Whether you’re looking to serve up a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress guests, these battered chicken tenders are always a hit.

Some of our other favorite chicken recipes we have on our site include: Popcorn Chicken, Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe Without Buttermilk, and Italian Lemon Chicken Foil Packet.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:

1. Golden Brown Goodness: Using a deep skillet ensures that your tenders get that perfect golden brown crispiness we all love.
2. Batter Up!: The special batter, with garlic powder and onion powder, not only coats the chicken perfectly but also infuses each tender with mouthwatering flavor.
3. Cook to Perfection: By monitoring the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, you ensure that it’s both safe to eat and tender.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):

• Chicken tenderloins
• Garlic powder
• Season salt
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Fresh ground pepper
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• All-purpose flour
• ice water
• peanut oil
• Kosher salt

HOW TO MAKE BATTERED CHICKEN TENDERS:

1. Place chicken tenders in a large bowl and add the garlic powder, seasoned salt, onion powder, paprika and black pepper. Mix together so all the pieces are coated.
2. Add in the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Coat the chicken in this mixture.
3. Add in the cold water and mix, by hand, until a batter forms, if there are some lumps that’s okay. (If you need to add some more water, do so a little at a time. It can depend on the weather if more is needed. It should be like a pancake batter consistency.)
4. In a heavy bottom skillet with deep sides, add enough oil to go up the side of the pan 2-3 inches—heat oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Place the chicken strips one by one into the pan, but don’t overcrowd them. They should not be touching.
6. Let fry on one side for about 4 minutes and flip over with tongs. Chicken is done when golden brown and has an internal temperature of at least 165°F degrees. About 8-10 minutes total.

1. Fry chicken in batches. When the chicken is done frying, place it on a wire rack over a pan so the excess oil can drip off. Immediately sprinkle a little of the kosher salt on the chicken. A little oil still on the outside will ensure it sticks.
2. Continue doing this until all the chicken is done. If you have a lot of tenders, you can hold the already fried chicken in an oven set on the lowest setting.
3. Serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauces, and enjoy!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:

WHAT ARE BATTERED CHICKEN TENDERS?

This recipe calls for chicken tenderloins, dipped in a flavorful batter and deep-fried until they turn golden brown and crispy.

They’re like the grown-up version of chicken nuggets!

HOW DO YOU KEEP THE TENDERS CRISPY?

After frying, place the chicken tenders on a wire rack over a pan. This lets the excess oil drip off and keeps them crispy.

Also, sprinkle some kosher or coarse salt while they’re still hot. It gives a great taste and helps maintain that crunch.

WHAT TO SERVE THESE WITH?

Oh, there are so many delicious options! You can serve these with french fries, a fresh salad, or even some coleslaw.

And don’t forget your favorite dipping sauce, like honey mustard sauce or barbecue.

CAN I USE OTHER CUTS OF CHICKEN?

While chicken tenderloins for boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into strips work best for this recipe, you can also use sliced boneless skinless chicken thighs.

Just remember, cooking time might vary!

ANY ADDITIONS?

You got it! Here are some great options for this crispy chicken.

• Mix some parmesan cheese into the batter for a cheesy twist.
• Add a hint of lemon juice to the batter for a zesty flavor.
• Toss in some cayenne pepper if you like it spicy.
• Serve with a homemade honey mustard dipping sauce.
• Consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs once fried for added freshness.
• Pair with a side of green beans or broccoli for a full meal.
• Garlic lovers can boost the flavor with some additional garlic powder.
• For a tangy twist, try a drizzle of malt vinegar or white vinegar on top.

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

Sure thing guys. I’ve got your back!

• Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier touch.
• Use canola oil or vegetable oil in place of peanut oil.
• If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh garlic finely minced can be a great replacement.
• For a tangier taste, substitute season salt with a pinch of lemon zest.
• Instead of cold water, try soda water or beer for a lighter batter.

HOW TO STORE:

Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge.

Reheat in the oven on a wire rack over a sheet tray to try and keep them crispy. Reheating in the air fryer should work too!

Freezer: For longer storage, place the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.

Battered Chicken Tenders are more than just a dish; they’re a crunchy, yummy experience. Easy to make, incredibly tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s no wonder they’re a favorite for many.

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a regular oven dinner, they’re bound to be a hit. So, let’s get to it!

If you’ve tried this BATTERED CHICKEN TENDERS, let me know how it turned out in the comments! You can follow me over on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK to find some more of our mouthwatering recipes!

Originally posted January 14th, 2014

Updated with recipe and post text tweaks September 2023