Are you craving those crispy, juicy chicken tenders that are the stuff of legend at the Puritan Backroom? Well, you're in luck! This recipe brings the magic of that classic New Hampshire restaurant right to your kitchen. Get ready to make some seriously delicious, homemade chicken tenders that will have everyone asking for seconds. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps them to crisp up nicely during frying. Seasoning the chicken well is key to a flavorful final product.
Step 2: The Breadcrumb Magic
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a separate shallow dish, pour the buttermilk. Finally, in a third shallow dish, place the panko bread crumbs.
Step 3: The Dredging Process
Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tender thoroughly in the panko bread crumbs, gently pressing to adhere.
Step 4: Frying to Perfection
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of bread crumbs sizzles immediately. Carefully place the chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces – honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tenders. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: This ensures the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying will help retain its juiciness.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herby Flavor: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour mixture for an added layer of flavor.
- Different Breadcrumbs: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, for a unique taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This copycat Puritan Backroom Chicken Tenders recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the deliciousness and the ease of making this classic dish at home. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can create delicious dishes that are also healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. These are truly some of the best recipes out there, perfect for any skill level.