Crispy Baked Buttermilk Chicken Tenders: A Healthier, Tastier Twist on a Classic!
Are you craving the satisfying crunch of fried chicken tenders but looking for a healthier alternative? Look no further! These baked buttermilk chicken tenders deliver all the flavor and crispy texture you love, without the guilt of deep-frying. Marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a flavorful blend of spices and breadcrumbs, these tenders are incredibly juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside. This recipe is easy to follow, perfect for weeknight dinners, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. So, ditch the drive-thru and let’s get baking!
Why Baked Buttermilk Chicken Tenders?
Traditional fried chicken tenders, while delicious, are often laden with oil and calories. Baking offers a healthier approach without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s why you should choose baked buttermilk chicken tenders:
* **Healthier:** Baking significantly reduces the amount of oil used, resulting in fewer calories and less fat.
* **Easy Cleanup:** Say goodbye to messy oil splatters and complicated cleanup. Baking is much cleaner and easier.
* **Even Cooking:** Baking ensures even cooking throughout the tenders, preventing some parts from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor that complements the crispy coating perfectly.
* **Crispy Texture:** A combination of breadcrumbs and spices creates a coating that crisps up beautifully in the oven, mimicking the texture of fried chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
**For the Buttermilk Marinade:**
* 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
* 2 cups buttermilk
* 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
**For the Crispy Coating:**
* 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds a nice nutty flavor)
* 2 teaspoons paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* Cooking spray
**Optional Dipping Sauces:**
* Ranch dressing
* Honey mustard
* Barbecue sauce
* Ketchup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started with the baking process. Follow these detailed steps for perfectly crispy and juicy baked buttermilk chicken tenders:
**Step 1: Marinate the Chicken**
1. **Prepare the Buttermilk Marinade:** In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
**Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a shallow dish or pie plate, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. **Prepare Egg Wash:** In another shallow dish or pie plate, beat the eggs until well combined. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
**Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders**
1. **Remove Chicken from Marinade:** Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. You can gently pat them dry with paper towels, but a little moisture is okay, as it helps the breadcrumbs stick.
2. **Dredge in Flour:** Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
3. **Dip in Egg Wash:** Dip the flour-coated chicken tender into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated.
4. **Coat in Breadcrumbs:** Dredge the egg-coated chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Make sure the chicken is completely covered in breadcrumbs.
5. **Repeat:** Repeat the dredging process for all the remaining chicken tenders.
**Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
2. **Prepare Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken tenders from sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. **Arrange Chicken Tenders:** Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. This will allow them to crisp up evenly.
4. **Spray with Cooking Spray:** Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This will help them turn golden brown and crispy.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken tenders halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and browning. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. **Let Rest:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
2. **Serve:** Serve the baked buttermilk chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ketchup.
3. **Enjoy:** Enjoy your delicious and healthier baked buttermilk chicken tenders! These tenders are perfect as a main course, appetizer, or snack. Serve them with sides like french fries, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Baked Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Here are some tips to ensure your baked buttermilk chicken tenders turn out perfectly every time:
* **Use High-Quality Chicken:** Choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
* **Don’t Skip the Marinade:** The buttermilk marinade is essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding flavor. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
* **Use Panko Breadcrumbs:** Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier coating. If you can’t find panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture may not be as crispy.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Make sure the chicken tenders are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet, without touching. This will allow them to crisp up evenly. If necessary, bake in batches.
* **Spray with Cooking Spray:** Spraying the chicken tenders with cooking spray helps them turn golden brown and crispy. Don’t skip this step!
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
* **Let Rest Before Serving:** Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Feel free to adjust the spices in the breadcrumb mixture to your liking. Add more or less of your favorite spices to create a unique flavor profile.
Variations and Additions
Here are some variations and additions to customize your baked buttermilk chicken tenders:
* **Spicy Chicken Tenders:** Add more cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicier kick. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
* **Italian Chicken Tenders:** Add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for a classic Italian flavor.
* **Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:** Add more grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy and garlicky flavor.
* **Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders:** Mix honey and mustard together for a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.
* **Lemon Herb Chicken Tenders:** Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for a bright and flavorful twist.
* **Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
These baked buttermilk chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Main Course:** Serve the chicken tenders as a main course with your favorite sides, such as french fries, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
* **Appetizer:** Cut the chicken tenders into smaller pieces and serve them as an appetizer with dipping sauces for parties or gatherings.
* **Chicken Sandwiches:** Use the chicken tenders to make delicious chicken sandwiches. Serve them on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
* **Chicken Salads:** Add the chicken tenders to salads for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
* **Chicken Wraps:** Wrap the chicken tenders in tortillas with your favorite toppings for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
* **Kids’ Meal:** These chicken tenders are a great option for kids’ meals. Serve them with a side of fries or veggies.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
**Storage:**
* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover baked buttermilk chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
**Reheating:**
* **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Air Fryer:** Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Microwave:** Reheating in the microwave is not recommended, as it can make the chicken tenders soggy. However, if you must use the microwave, heat them in short intervals and check frequently.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g
Conclusion
These baked buttermilk chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. They are easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With a tangy buttermilk marinade and a crispy breadcrumb coating, these tenders are incredibly flavorful and satisfying. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a guilt-free version of your favorite comfort food!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
**Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs?**
A: Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs are recommended for a crispier texture.
**Q: Can I marinate the chicken for longer than 2 hours?**
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for even more tender and flavorful results.
**Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders?**
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken tenders. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy.
**Q: Can I add cheese to the breadcrumb mixture?**
A: Yes, you can add grated Parmesan cheese or other types of cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy flavor.
**Q: What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?**
A: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ketchup are all great dipping sauces for these chicken tenders.
**Q: How can I make these chicken tenders spicier?**
A: Add more cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
**Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?**
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
**Q: Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?**
A: No, this recipe is not gluten-free unless you use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free all-purpose flour.
**Q: Can I bake these chicken tenders in an air fryer?**
A: Yes, you can bake these chicken tenders in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
**Q: How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from falling off the chicken?**
A: Make sure to dredge the chicken thoroughly in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere. You can also chill the breaded chicken tenders in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to help the breadcrumbs set.