Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the chicken tenders and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for extra tenderness).
2. Prepare the Breading: In one shallow dish, combine flour and a pinch of salt. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade. Dredge each piece in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Would you like a baked or air-fried version as well? 😊