Is there anything more comforting than a plate of crispy chicken tenders paired with a refreshing creamy slaw? This recipe takes me back to family gatherings, where laughter and the aroma of fried chicken filled the air. It’s not just delicious; it’s a memory on a plate!
What I love most about this dish is how easy and quick it is to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these chicken tenders will surely be a hit!
Why You’ll Love Crispy Chicken Tenders with Creamy Slaw 😋🔥
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast – Cut into strips for easy frying.
- 1 cup buttermilk – This makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Gives a nice color and slight smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick to balance the richness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – Ensures a crispy coating.
- Oil for frying – Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
- 4 cups green cabbage – Shredded for crunch in your slaw.
- 1 cup carrots – Adds sweetness and color.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – The base of your creamy dressing.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – For a tangy kick.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Balances out the vinegar.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders with Creamy Slaw 😋🔥
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for flavor!
- Prepare the Slaw: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined. Set aside while the chicken marinates.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. In a shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, shaking off the excess, then into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Plate the crispy chicken tenders alongside the creamy slaw. Enjoy every bite!
Substitutions & Additions
- Swap the chicken breast for chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add some spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Try using panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture.
- Incorporate other veggies like bell peppers or radishes into your slaw.
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the marinating process; it’s key to tender chicken.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken to prevent sogginess.
- If you want to prep ahead, marinate the chicken and make the slaw a day in advance.
How to Store Crispy Chicken Tenders with Creamy Slaw 😋🔥
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken tenders will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but they’re best enjoyed right away. If you want to reheat them, try popping them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
FAQs
- Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them? Yes! Bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative for the buttermilk? You can use almond milk with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.
- How can I make the slaw vegan? Use vegan mayonnaise to make the creamy slaw vegan-friendly.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to follow my Pinterest for more delicious ideas!
Crispy Chicken Tenders with Creamy Slaw
Is there anything more comforting than a plate of crispy chicken tenders paired with a refreshing creamy slaw? This recipe takes me back to family gatherings, where laughter and the aroma of fried chicken filled the air. It's not just delicious; it's a memory on a plate!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for flavor!
- Step 2: Prepare the Slaw: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined. Set aside while the chicken marinates.
- Step 3: Dredge the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. In a shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, shaking off the excess, then into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 4: Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Step 5: Serve: Plate the crispy chicken tenders alongside the creamy slaw. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken tenders will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but they're best enjoyed right away. If you want to reheat them, try popping them in the oven to retain their crispiness.