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Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Tenders

Juicy chicken tenders coated in a flavorful mustard-milk marinade, dredged in seasoned flour, and fried until golden and ultra-crispy. Served with fries and dipping sauce for the ultimate homemade comfort meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 | Large mixing bowl | for marinade
  • 1 | Medium bowl | for flour mixture
  • 1 | Deep frying pan or pot |
  • 1 | Tongs | for turning
  • 1 | Wire rack | for draining
  • 1 | Thermometer | optional for oil temperature

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 | lb | chicken breast tenders |
  • 2 | tbsp | yellow mustard |
  • 2 | tbsp | hot sauce or chili paste |
  • 1 | cup | milk |
  • 1.5 | cups | all-purpose flour |
  • 1 | tsp | paprika |
  • 1 | tsp | garlic powder |
  • 1 | tsp | salt |
  • 0.5 | tsp | black pepper |
  • 0.5 | tsp | cayenne pepper |
  • | | oil | for deep frying
  • | | french fries | for serving
  • | | creamy dipping sauce | for serving

Instructions
 

  • Pat chicken tenders dry and place in a large bowl.
  • Add mustard, hot sauce or chili paste, and milk; mix until fully coated.
  • In a separate bowl whisk flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
  • Dredge each piece of chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing to adhere.
  • Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F.
  • Fry tenders in batches for 4-6 minutes, turning once, until deep golden and cooked through.
  • Transfer to a wire rack to drain and rest.
  • Serve hot with french fries and creamy dipping sauce.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
Leftovers reheat well in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes.
Maintain oil temperature between 340-360°F for even cooking.
Double the flour mixture if coating a larger batch.