Crispy Chicken Tenders with Pickles

Discover the magic of ultra-crispy chicken tenders infused with the tangy zest of pickle brine. These Pickle Brine Chicken Tenders are soaked to achieve maximum flavor and tenderness, then coated in a perfectly seasoned crunchy breading before being fried to crisp, golden perfection. A simple yet extraordinary twist on a classic favorite, these tenders promise irresistible texture and a burst of flavor with every bite.

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Beyond its incredible crunch, the flavor depth brought by pickle brine takes these tenders to the next level. Whether you're frying them up for a casual meal or preparing a platter for guests, these tenders deliver a crowd-pleasing combination of tender chicken and vibrant seasoning.

Ingredients

• Chicken & Marinade
  • 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) dill pickle brine (from a jar of pickles)
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• Breading
  • 1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (65 g) cornstarch
  • 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• To Fry
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or non-dairy milk for DF option)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1.

In a bowl, combine chicken tenders, pickle brine, and hot sauce (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours).

2.

Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels.

3.

In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).

4.

In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together.

5.

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, then back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly for a thick, crispy coating.

6.

Heat 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

7.

Fry the tenders in batches, 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate.

8.

Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Get perfectly crunchy tenders every time by pressing the breading firmly during the double-dip process. Patting the chicken dry well before breading ensures the coating adheres tightly. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying without greasiness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For oven-baked tenders, bake on an oiled rack at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway. To boost crunchiness, add ½ cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture. Swap in bread-and-butter pickle brine for a sweeter, milder flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

Enjoy your crispy pickle brine chicken tenders with ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for dipping. They also pair wonderfully with fresh coleslaw, crispy fries, or a tangy pickle spear on the side.

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This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, tender chicken tenders infused with pickle brine’s unmistakable tang and depth. Whether served as a casual snack or a main dish, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite for their flavor, texture, and ease of preparation.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use other meats?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or turkey, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, up to 4 hours for best results.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute with non-dairy milk or make your own buttermilk by adding vinegar to regular milk.

→ Can I bake these tenders?

Yes, bake them on an oiled rack at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes for a healthier option.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?

They pair well with ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for added flavor.