Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders feature juicy, hand-breaded chicken strips seasoned with a blend of savory spices, delivering a crispy golden exterior and tender, flavorful interior perfect for a comforting Southern-style meal.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or tray
- Wire rack
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken tenders
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Make sure your chicken tenders are fully submerged in the buttermilk and hot sauce marinade for at least 1 to 2 hours to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. When mixing the flour and cornstarch with the spices, thoroughly combine them to ensure an even coating that delivers the signature crispy and flavorful crust. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. Vegetable oil should be heated to around 350degF (175degC) to achieve the perfect golden, crunchy exterior without absorbing excess oil. Your homemade version of Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders captures the juicy, hand-breaded quality and bold Southern spices that make this dish so beloved.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture; cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
- Remove tenders from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Place coated tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet; let rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken tenders in batches for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer cooked tenders to a clean wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders from the copycat menu replicate the iconic juicy chicken strips with a crispy, well-seasoned crust. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it by mixing 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF to ensure a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF for safe consumption. You can rest the cooked tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels to keep them crispier.
Tips
Ensure the chicken tenders are fully submerged in the buttermilk marinade to allow the flavors to penetrate evenly. When dredging, gently press the flour mixture to create a thick, crispy crust without it falling off during frying. Maintain the oil temperature at a steady 350degF (175degC) to achieve a golden exterior while cooking the interior thoroughly to 165degF (74degC). Let your tenders rest on a wire rack after frying to drain excess oil and keep them crispy.
Nutritions
Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders provide a rich source of protein essential for muscle repair and growth, thanks to the lean chicken tenders used. The breading, made from a blend of all-purpose flour and cornstarch combined with spices like paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper, adds flavor but increases carbohydrate content and calories. Frying in vegetable oil cooks the chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165degF (74degC), though it also adds fat and calories to the meal. You can balance this indulgent Southern-style dish by pairing it with vegetables or a salad to enhance nutrient intake.
Storage
Store any leftover Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their flavorful, crispy texture. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer set to 350degF (175degC) to retain the tender's golden exterior without sacrificing juiciness. Your tenders can also be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, ensuring convenience for future meals.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap buttermilk with plain Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice to create a tangy, thicker marinade that keeps your chicken moist and tender. Replace the all-purpose flour partially with rice flour or fine cornmeal to achieve a lighter, extra crispy crust. Instead of deep frying, bake tenders on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 425degF (220degC) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier alternative. Experiment by adding smoked paprika or chili powder to the seasoning mix to infuse your tenders with a smoky or spicy kick.
Allergies
Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders contain wheat-based all-purpose flour and cornstarch, which may trigger gluten allergies or sensitivities in some individuals. The recipe also includes buttermilk, posing a risk for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. You should check all ingredients carefully if you have food allergies to avoid any adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Bojangles' Homestyle Tenders are favored for their crispy, seasoned coating and juicy, tender chicken that delivers a mouthwatering Southern flavor with every bite. The perfectly balanced blend of spices enhances the homestyle appeal, making these tenders stand out from typical fried chicken options. Fans appreciate the consistent quality and comforting taste that makes Bojangles a top choice for quick, satisfying meals. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate that iconic taste and enjoy freshly cooked tenders tailored to your preferences.