Print

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy chicken strips coated in a fiery Nashville-style spice blend. Served with pickles and white bread, they deliver the perfect combination of crunch, heat, and bold Southern flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds chicken tenders
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • ¼ cup frying oil
  • 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Dill pickle slices
  • White sandwich bread

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl.
  2. Whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
  3. Pour the mixture over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  4. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade.
  6. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick coating.
  7. Place the coated tenders on a wire rack and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Fry the chicken in batches for 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Transfer the cooked tenders to a wire rack.
  11. In a heat-safe bowl, whisk together the frying oil, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt.
  12. Brush the spicy oil mixture generously over the fried chicken tenders.
  13. Serve immediately with dill pickle slices and white sandwich bread.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
  • Allowing the breaded chicken to rest helps the coating stay intact during frying.
  • Chicken breasts can be sliced into strips and used instead of tenders.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
  • Serve with coleslaw, fries, mac and cheese, or potato salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/nashville-hot-chicken-tenders/