If you’re looking for a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, these chicken tenders with tartar sauce are the perfect choice. Juicy, crispy chicken strips paired with a creamy, tangy tartar sauce make for a delightful meal or snack. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, enjoying a cozy dinner at home, or just craving something tasty, this recipe is sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Tartar Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken strips in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to tenderize and add flavor.
- Prepare the Tartar Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, dill pickles, capers, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat a couple of eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dip each strip in the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re well-covered for that perfect crunch.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken tenders hot, alongside the homemade tartar sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful creation!
These chicken tenders are perfect for any occasion, and the tartar sauce adds a unique flavor that takes them to the next level. Enjoy!