Carl's Jr. Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders feature tender, juicy white meat chicken strips coated in a crunchy, golden-brown breading, delivering a crispy exterior with a flavorful, savory bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Sheet pans
- Wire racks
- Meat thermometer
- Kitchen knives
- Cutting board
- Food thermometer
- Tray or platter for serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenderloins
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
When preparing your hand-breaded chicken tenders, be sure to marinate the 1 lb of chicken tenderloins in 2 cups of buttermilk infused with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance flavor and tenderness. Use a mixture of 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 cup cornstarch for the breading to achieve the signature crispy and golden exterior. Vegetable oil must be heated to the correct temperature, typically around 350degF (175degC), to cook the tenders evenly and prevent them from becoming greasy. Utilize a meat thermometer to ensure the internal chicken temperature reaches at least 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. Your attempt at Carl's Jr. Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders will capture the juicy, flavorful bite found in their copycat menu version.
Instructions
- Trim chicken tenderloins with kitchen knives on a cutting board.
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken tenderloins to the buttermilk mixture; cover and marinate in refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and cornstarch.
- Remove marinated chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere coating evenly.
- Place breaded tenders on a wire rack set over a sheet pan.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken tenders in batches, using tongs, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C, use meat thermometer).
- Remove from oil and drain on a clean wire rack or paper towels set over a sheet pan.
- Transfer to serving tray or platter.
Substitution
Carl's Jr. Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders replicate the chain's signature crispy, golden chicken strips made with juicy white meat coated in a flavorful breading. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar tangy tenderness. Use a deep fryer set to 350degF (175degC) for optimal crispiness, or a heavy skillet with sufficient oil if a fryer is not available. To ensure even cooking and safety, monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165degF (74degC). For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a certified gluten-free blend, adjusting for texture as needed.
Tips
Always marinate your chicken tenderloins in buttermilk with spices for at least one hour to ensure they remain tender and flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption without overcooking. When dredging chicken in the flour mixture, press firmly so the coating sticks and results in a crispy texture. Drain fried tenders on a wire rack over a sheet pan instead of paper towels to keep the breading crisp and prevent sogginess.
Nutritions
Carl's Jr. Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders provide a source of lean protein from the white meat chicken tenderloins, essential for muscle repair and growth. The breading, made with all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and flour additives like baking powder, adds carbohydrates and calories to the dish, contributing to energy intake. Frying the tenders in vegetable oil increases the fat content, impacting the overall calorie count and potentially affecting heart health depending on oil quality. You can balance your meal by pairing these tenders with vegetables or a fresh salad to enhance nutrient diversity.
Storage
Store leftover Carl's Jr. Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture without sacrificing juiciness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the breading soggy and diminish the tender quality of your chicken strips.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice to achieve similar tenderizing effects. Swap the all-purpose flour and cornstarch mixture with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. You can also bake the chicken tenders on a greased sheet pan at 400degF (200degC) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to reduce oil usage. Ensure your meat thermometer reads 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption.
Allergies
Carl's Jr. Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders contain common allergens such as wheat (from all-purpose flour) and possibly dairy (from buttermilk). If you have gluten intolerance or a milk allergy, it is important to avoid these tenders or seek allergy-friendly alternatives. Always check ingredient labels carefully to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders from Carl's Jr. offer a crispy, flavorful coating paired with tender, juicy chicken inside, creating a satisfying texture contrast that appeals to many. Their seasoned breading blends savory spices, delivering a bold taste that stands out from typical fast-food options. Making a copycat version allows you to control ingredient quality and customize seasoning to suit Your preferences, ensuring a fresher and more personalized meal experience. Replicating this menu item at home saves money while providing the same crave-worthy crunch and succulent chicken that Carl's Jr. fans love.