Crispy Chicken Tenders with Pickles (Print Version)

Ultra-crispy chicken tenders marinated in pickle brine.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
02 - 1 cup dill pickle brine (from a jar of pickles)
03 - 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

→ Breading

04 - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
05 - ½ cup cornstarch
06 - 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
11 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ To Fry

12 - 2 large eggs
13 - 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or non-dairy milk for DF option)
14 - Vegetable oil, for frying

# Steps to Follow:

01 - 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).
02 - Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
03 - In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together.
05 - Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, then back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly for a thick, crispy coating.
06 - Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F.
07 - 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.
08 - Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Marinating in pickle brine adds exceptional tenderness and tang.
  • Double dredge ensures the crispiest crunchy coating.
  • Quick to prepare and easy to customize with spices and sauces.
  • Great for dipping and sure to please picky eaters and adults alike.
02 -
  • Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but no longer than four to prevent over-tenderizing.
  • Press the breading firmly onto chicken to build a thick and crispy crust.
  • Maintain oil temperature between batches for consistent frying results.
  • Drain fried tenders on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep coating crispy.
  • Try different pickle brines to experiment with flavors.
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