When it comes to cozy dinners or easy entertaining, few dishes hit the mark quite like crispy chicken tenders. This recipe takes juicy chicken and transforms it into crunchy, golden bites that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Paired with not one, but two delectable dipping sauces, these tenders are sure to be a hit whether you’re hosting game day, enjoying a family movie night, or simply craving some comfort food.

Why you’ll love this dish

Why should you give this chicken tenders recipe a try? For starters, it’s incredibly simple and comes together with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The only real challenge is deciding whether to dunk your tenders in the creamy Chicken Finger Dipping Sauce or the sweet-and-spicy Chick-fil-A Copycat Sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a fun food for parties, these crispy delights can please even the pickiest of eaters.

"These chicken tenders are so crispy and flavorful, and my kids can’t get enough. The dipping sauces are a game-changer!" – Satisfied Home Cook

The cooking process explained

Let’s break down just how easy it is to make these crispy chicken tenders from start to finish. You’ll start by marinating the chicken, which ensures they stay moist while frying. Then, you’ll create a flavorful coating that adds that perfect crunch. Finally, with some hot oil and a little patience, you’ll end up with golden, crispy tenders that are fantastic right out of the fryer or served with your favorite sauces.

What you’ll need

Gather these ingredients for an unbeatable crispy chicken tender experience:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast tenders (or 4 medium-size boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into tenders)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon sriracha
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 6 cups vegetable oil
• For Chicken Finger Dipping Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Cholula hot sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• For Chick-fil-A Copycat Sauce:
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional: You can adjust the heat level by increasing the sriracha or add more spices to your flour mixture for a unique twist!