The Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders Recipe has become a family favorite for good reason! These chicken strips are not just incredibly moist and delicious, but they are also surprisingly easy to make at home. If you’re looking for a meal that will have everyone at the table raving, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again.
Close-up shot of Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders soaking in buttermilk, ready for the next step.
The secret to these amazing chicken tenders starts with a simple buttermilk soak. This tenderizing step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. By letting the chicken strips sit in buttermilk for just 15 to 20 minutes, or even longer, you’re ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful during cooking.
Next comes the magic of the crispy coating. Unlike typical breading, this recipe incorporates buttermilk directly into the flour mixture to create delightful crumbles. This unique technique is what sets The Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders apart, giving them an irresistible texture that’s both crunchy and light. Don’t be tempted to skip this step – it’s the key to their exceptional taste and texture!
Image showing the process of frying Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders in a skillet until golden brown and crispy.
Once coated, the chicken tenders are fried to golden perfection. The result is a batch of incredibly flavorful, crispy, and juicy chicken tenders that are perfect for dipping and pairing with your favorite side dishes. Consider serving them alongside classic comfort foods like creamy Macaroni and Cheese or hearty Potato Foil Packets for a complete and satisfying meal.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders are always a hit. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that delivers restaurant-quality chicken tenders right in your own kitchen.
Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders Recipe
Print Recipe
Pioneer Woman Chicken Tenders Recipe card image, showcasing ingredients and a preview of the cooked dish.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Breasts, cut into strips (or use chicken tenderloins)
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 1-1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2-3 Teaspoons Seasoning Salt (like Lawry’s) or your preferred spices
- Vegetable Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the chicken strips under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the buttermilk adhere better.
- In a medium bowl, submerge the chicken strips in 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk. Ensure all pieces are coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer for even more tender chicken.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the breading. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and seasoning salt (or your chosen spices). Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Create the signature crumbles by adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup of buttermilk to the flour mixture. Use a fork to lightly stir it in, creating small, moist crumbles throughout the flour. Do not overmix; you want crumbles, not a batter.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low to medium heat. The oil is ready when a small drop of flour mixture sizzles gently when dropped in.
- Remove a few buttermilk-soaked chicken strips at a time and dredge them in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are fully coated with the flour and crumbles. Place the coated chicken on a clean plate. Repeat until all strips are coated.
- Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Fry the chicken for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard.
Servings: 6
Author: The Pioneer Woman
Estimated Cost: $5
