Crispy Fried Chicken Tender Bites with Buffalo Ranch Dipping Sauce

Crispy Fried Chicken Tender Bites with Buffalo Ranch Dipping Sauce

There’s something undeniably comforting about crispy fried chicken tenders, especially when they’re paired with a zesty buffalo ranch dipping sauce. Whether you’re hosting game day, preparing a delightful weeknight dinner, or simply craving some finger-licking goodness, these chicken tender bites are sure to satisfy. The light crunch from the seasoned coating complements the juicy chicken inside, delivering a perfect bite that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the homemade buffalo ranch sauce adds just the right kick!

Reasons You’ll Want to Try This Dish

Why should you make crispy fried chicken tender bites at home? For starters, they’re incredibly versatile. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or snack, they cater to a wide range of occasions – think casual family dinners, birthday parties, or fantastic movie nights. These tenders are not just kid-approved but are widely loved by adults too, making them an excellent choice for gatherings.

Here’s what one delighted cook said:

“These chicken bites are a game changer! Not only are they quick to make, but they disappear every time I serve them.”

The Cooking Process Explained

Preparing these delicious chicken tender bites is straightforward and fun. You’ll start by soaking the chicken tenders in buttermilk, which infuses moisture and flavor, while also helping the flour adhere better. As the chicken marinates, you’ll prepare the seasoned flour mixture, which adds an incredible depth of flavor to the final dish. Don’t worry if you’re new to frying; you’ll be guided every step of the way!

What You’ll Need

To create these mouthwatering bites, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce

Feel free to experiment with the seasoning like trying a bit of cayenne pepper for extra heat or using gluten-free flour if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by soaking the chicken tenders in a bowl of buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C).
4. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Ensure they’re well-coated for that crispy texture.
5. Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. While frying, mix the ranch dressing and buffalo sauce together in a bowl for dipping.
7. Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot, alongside the spicy buffalo ranch dipping sauce.

How to Plate and Pair

These crispy fried chicken tender bites shine on their own, but you can elevate your serving game. Try arranging them on a large platter with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks for that classic buffalo experience. You can also sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top for a pop of color. To make it a complete meal, serve it with loaded fries or a fresh green salad.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an oven to help maintain their crispiness. Place them on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until hot. While it’s safe to freeze them, the texture may change after thawing, so try to enjoy them fresh whenever possible.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: After the first dip in buttermilk and flour, you can repeat the process for an extra crunchy coating.
2. Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to keep an eye on the oil temperature—this ensures the chicken cooks perfectly without getting burnt.
3. Letting It Rest: Allow the cooked tenders to rest on a wire rack rather than on paper towels. This keeps the bottom from getting soggy.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:

• Spicy Chipotle Ranch: Replace the ranch dressing with chipotle ranch for an extra kick.
• Crispy Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Baked Version: For a healthier adaptation, bake the coated tenders at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long should I soak the chicken in buttermilk?
A: At least 30 minutes is ideal, but for best results, soaking longer (up to 2 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness.

Q: Can I use skin-on chicken?
A: Yes! Skin-on chicken will yield even more flavor and crunch, but adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

If you’re looking for a deliciously crispy snack that will impress your friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these mouthwatering crispy fried chicken tender bites! For more great recipes, check out our One-Pot Pasta or cottage cheese bagels for more delicious flavor combinations. Happy cooking!

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Crispy Fried Chicken Tender Bites with Buffalo Ranch Dipping Sauce

Deliciously crispy chicken tender bites served with a zesty buffalo ranch dipping sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Can use gluten-free flour if needed.
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce

Method

 

Preparation

1. Soak the chicken tenders in a bowl of buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Cooking

1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C).
2. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. While frying, mix the ranch dressing and buffalo sauce together in a bowl for dipping.

Serving

1. Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot, alongside the spicy buffalo ranch dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken tenders. Let cooked tenders rest on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. For a healthier version, try baking them.