Ultra Crispy Chicken Tenders (Restaurant Style)

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs (700g) chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp baking powder (secret for lighter crunch)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
  (or see air fryer instructions below)

🥣 Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Very Important)

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.

2. Add chicken strips and coat well.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (best: 2–4 hours).

   • This tenderizes the chicken and keeps it juicy.

🥄 Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up 3 bowls:

Bowl 1: Flour + cornstarch + spices + baking powder
Bowl 2: 2 beaten eggs
Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs

🍗 Step 3: Bread the Chicken

For each piece:

1. Remove from buttermilk (let excess drip off).

2. Dredge in flour mixture (press firmly).

3. Dip in egg.

4. Coat in panko, pressing to create thick coverage.

5. Place on tray and let rest 10 minutes (helps coating stick).

🔥 Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry chicken in batches (do not overcrowd).

3. Cook 4–5 minutes per side until deep golden brown.

4. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Drain on wire rack (not paper towel — keeps them crispy).

🌬️ Air Fryer Version (Healthier Option)

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Spray both sides of breaded chicken with cooking spray.

3. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Spray lightly again halfway for extra crispiness.

🧄 Creamy Honey Mustard Dip (Like in the Picture)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1–2 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Pinch salt

Mix and chill 20 minutes before serving.

🔥 Extra Crispy Tips (Pro Level)

• Add 2 tbsp grated parmesan to panko.

• Double-dip (flour → egg → flour → egg → panko) for thicker crust.

• Use a thermometer for perfect oil temperature.

• Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.