Easy Homemade KFC Chicken Tenders Recipe

Craving the irresistible taste of KFC Chicken Tenders? This recipe brings the beloved fast-food favorite right to your kitchen. Enjoy crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders with a juicy interior, perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!

Ingredients List

Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• 500 g chicken breast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper powder
• 1/2 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 beaten egg
• 1/3 cup buttermilk

Breading Ingredients

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing KFC Chicken Tenders, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and preparing the breading.
2. Whisk: To beat the egg and mix the ingredients.
3. Tongs: For handling the chicken tenders during frying.
4. Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot: To fry the chicken tenders to golden perfection.
5. Wire Cooling Rack: To let the excess oil drip off after frying.

Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful KFC Chicken Tenders cooking experience.

Chicken Marination

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in achieving the flavorful and juicy KFC Chicken Tenders. Follow these steps to prepare and marinate the chicken properly.

Mixing the Marinade

To start the marinade, mix the salt, soy sauce, tomato ketchup, paprika or chili powder, pepper powder, and ginger-garlic paste in a large mixing bowl. Ensure the ingredients are well combined to create a rich and flavorful marinade.

Marinating the Chicken

After preparing the marinade, cut the chicken breast into strips. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

Preparing the Breading

The breading is essential for that crispy, crunchy exterior of the KFC Chicken Tenders. Follow these steps to prepare and coat the chicken tenders.

Mixing the Breading Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, pepper powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika powder, and oregano. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of the spices throughout the flour.

Coating the Chicken

1. Prepare the Egg and Buttermilk Mixture:
   In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the buttermilk. This mixture will help the breading adhere to the chicken strips.
2. Dredge the Chicken:
   Take each marinated chicken strip and dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken strip in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks well. Repeat this process for all the chicken strips.
3. Double Dipping:
   For extra crispy tenders, you can double-dip the chicken strips. After the initial coating, dip them back into the egg mixture and then coat them again with the flour mixture. This double coating ensures a thicker, crunchier crust.

Once all the chicken strips are coated, let them rest on a plate or baking sheet while you heat the oil for frying.

Frying the Chicken Tenders

Frying the chicken tenders to golden perfection is the final step in this recipe. Proper oil temperature and frying technique are key to achieving that crispy, juicy texture.

Heating the Oil

1. Choose the Right Oil:
   Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable oil or canola oil for frying. Fill your deep fryer or heavy pot with enough oil to submerge the chicken tenders completely.
2. Heat the Oil:
   Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for even cooking and crispy results.

Frying the Chicken Tenders

1. Fry in Batches:
   Fry the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tenders. Using tongs, carefully place a few chicken strips into the hot oil.
2. Cook Until Golden Brown:
   Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain the Tenders:
   Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken tenders from the oil. Place them on a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. This keeps the tenders crispy.

Once all the tenders are fried, you’re ready to serve them hot and crispy.

Serving and Enjoying Your KFC Chicken Tenders

Now that your chicken tenders are perfectly fried and golden, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are some suggestions for serving and storing your delicious homemade KFC Chicken Tenders.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Dips:
   Serve your chicken tenders with a variety of classic dips such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or ketchup. These dips complement the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
2. Side Dishes:
   Pair your tenders with classic sides like french fries, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve them with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option.
3. Sandwiches and Wraps:
   Use your chicken tenders to make delicious sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and your favorite condiments to a bun or tortilla for a tasty and convenient meal.

Storage Instructions

1. Refrigeration:
   If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are hot and crispy again.
2. Freezing:
   For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy.

Conclusion

Making KFC Chicken Tenders at home is a fun and rewarding experience. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, you can enjoy this beloved fast-food favorite anytime. The key lies in marinating the chicken, preparing a flavorful breading, and frying to crispy perfection. Whether you serve them with classic dips, side dishes, or use them in sandwiches and wraps, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade KFC Chicken Tenders. Happy cooking!