Zesty Golden Tenders from Golden Chick feature crispy, golden-battered chicken strips seasoned with bold spices, delivering a flavorful and crunchy bite perfect for any craving.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Sheet pan or tray
- Meat thermometer
- Paper towels
- Wire rack
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Using fresh chicken tenderloins ensures the best texture and flavor in your Zesty Golden Tenders copycat recipe. Buttermilk combined with hot sauce creates a tenderizing marinade that also adds a subtle tang and heat to your chicken. The seasoned flour mixture, which includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme, is essential for achieving the bold and balanced flavor profile. Using a blend of all-purpose flour and cornstarch helps create a crispy, golden-battered crust when deep-fried in vegetable oil. Your homemade Zesty Golden Tenders from Golden Chick copycat will deliver that signature crunchy, flavorful bite perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Instructions
- Trim and prep chicken tenderloins on cutting board with knife.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add chicken tenderloins to buttermilk mixture; marinate at least 30 minutes.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme.
- Set wire rack over sheet pan; line with paper towels.
- Preheat deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove tenders from marinade; dredge in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to coat.
- Shake off excess, then place tenders on clean tray.
- Using tongs, fry tenders in batches (avoid crowding) 5–7 minutes, turning as needed.
- Check internal temperature with meat thermometer (should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove tenders; drain on prepared wire rack.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Zesty Golden Tenders from Golden Chick copycat menu deliver a crispy and flavorful chicken strip experience with a blend of bold spices and a golden-battered coating. You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar tanginess and tenderizing effect. If cornstarch is unavailable, potato starch or rice flour can be used to maintain the crispiness of the coating. When frying, maintain the oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) using a meat thermometer to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy chicken. Rest the fried tenders on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy on all sides.
Tips
Marinating chicken tenderloins in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 30 minutes tenderizes the meat and boosts flavor intensity. Pressing the seasoned flour mixture firmly onto the chicken ensures a crispy, golden crust that adheres well during frying. Fry tenders in small batches to maintain oil temperature at 350degF (175degC), preventing sogginess or undercooking. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption, ensuring your tenders are perfectly cooked.
Nutritions
Zesty Golden Tenders provide a protein-rich meal, with chicken tenderloins delivering essential amino acids that support muscle health and repair. The buttermilk marinade adds a slight boost in calcium and probiotics, while the combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The frying process adds calories and fat, primarily from vegetable oil, so moderating portion size helps manage your intake of unhealthy fats. You can enjoy these tenders as a flavorful protein source while balancing them with vegetables or whole grains for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover Zesty Golden Tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Enjoy your tenders within 3 to 4 days, reheating them in an oven or air fryer to preserve their crispy texture. Avoid storing them at room temperature for extended periods to keep your food safe and flavorful.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt or a mixture of milk and lemon juice for a tangy marinade. Spice up your dredging mixture by adding smoked paprika or ground cumin to elevate the flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a rice flour blend to maintain crispiness. Experiment with oven-baking the tenders at 425degF (220degC) for 20-25 minutes for a lighter, oil-free alternative.
Allergies
Zesty Golden Tenders contain wheat from all-purpose flour and cornstarch, which are common allergens that may affect those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The buttermilk in the recipe also poses a risk for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Be sure to check your allergy profile carefully before enjoying these flavorful chicken strips.
Why this recipe?
Zesty Golden Tenders from Golden Chick combine tender, juicy chicken strips with a perfectly balanced zesty seasoning that delivers bold, flavorful bites. The crispy golden breading enhances the texture, making each piece irresistibly crunchy while maintaining a succulent interior. You'll appreciate the versatility of this dish, which pairs well with various dipping sauces and sides, creating an exciting meal experience. Replicating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality tenders tailored to your preferred spice level and freshness.