Craving that crispy, juicy chicken tender taste you get from your favorite fast-food joint, but without the drive-through line? Then you're in luck! This recipe will guide you through making delicious, homemade Bojangles-style chicken tenders that are just as satisfying, if not more so. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun family meal, or even a casual get-together with friends. Get ready for a taste of homemade deliciousness that's surprisingly simple to achieve!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut your chicken breasts into even-sized tenders. This ensures even cooking. Aim for roughly 1-inch thickness for perfect tenderness and crispiness.
Step 2: Make the Breading
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and thyme. This is your flavorful breading mix – the secret to that amazing Bojangles taste!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish. Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, ensuring it's fully coated. This helps the breading adhere beautifully.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each buttermilk-soaked tender in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Make sure to coat all sides evenly. Set the breaded tenders aside. For extra crispy tenders, you can repeat the buttermilk and breading process once more.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of batter should sizzle immediately), carefully place the chicken tenders in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the fried chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces – honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy mayo are all fantastic choices!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy tenders. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: A meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the chicken is cooked thoroughly and safely.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Double breading: For extra crispy tenders, consider double breading – dipping the chicken in buttermilk, breading it, then repeating the process.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the breading for an extra spicy twist.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices like oregano, rosemary, or even a blend of Italian seasoning.
- Baked Tenders: For a healthier option, bake the breaded tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While not as crispy as fried, they're still delicious and satisfying.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
*Calories: Approximately 300-350 (depending on oil absorption and serving size) *Protein: Around 25-30g *Fat: Varies depending on frying method and oil absorption.
This homemade Bojangles chicken tenders recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal without sacrificing quality or health. It's a delicious and quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!