Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders from Slim Chickens feature tender, crispy chicken strips coated in a tangy, smoky Slim's Sauce, delivering a flavorful and juicy bite with a savory kick.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Sheet pan or tray
- Wire rack
- Sauce brush or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Thermometer
- Plate for serving
Ingredients
- For Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For Slim’s Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
Ensure you use fresh chicken tenderloins to maintain the tender texture essential for the recipe. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the coating mix creates a crispy outer layer. Using buttermilk in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken and adds subtle tanginess. Measure the spices precisely to balance the smoky, savory, and spicy flavors in both the chicken coating and Slim's Sauce. Your homemade Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders from the Slim Chickens copycat menu will capture the signature tangy, smoky, and juicy taste.
Instructions
- Instruction for Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders (Slim Chickens Copycat):
- In mixing bowl, whisk buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken tenderloins to buttermilk mixture; cover and marinate for 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in refrigerator.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper.
- Preheat deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade; dredge each piece in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to coat.
- Place coated tenders on wire rack or tray.
- Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C), about 5–6 minutes per batch.
- Drain cooked tenders on wire rack or paper towel-lined tray.
- While chicken rests, make Slim's Sauce: whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dill pickle juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and honey in a bowl until smooth.
- Toss hot chicken tenders in Slim’s Sauce or brush sauce over tenders.
- Serve immediately on plate, with extra Slim’s Sauce on side.
Substitution
Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders from Slim Chickens can be replicated at home by preparing tender chicken strips and coating them with a tangy, smoky homemade Slim's Sauce. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes to sour. When frying, ensure your vegetable oil is heated to 350degF (175degC) for the crispiest texture without absorbing excess oil. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour. Use a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep the tenders crispy before tossing them in Slim's Sauce to maintain the perfect balance of flavor and texture for your meal.
Tips
Make sure to marinate the chicken tenderloins in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor absorption. Preheat the oil to a precise 350degF (175degC) and monitor the temperature with a thermometer for perfectly crispy tenders without greasiness. When dredging your chicken, press the flour mixture firmly onto each piece for a thicker, more even crust that holds up during frying. Your crispy tenders are best served immediately after tossing in Slim's Sauce to keep the balance of crispy texture and tangy flavor intact.
Nutritions
Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders provide a rich source of protein from the lean chicken tenderloins, essential for muscle repair and growth. The batter adds carbohydrates and fats, primarily from all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and vegetable oil used in frying, contributing to the crispy texture. Slim's Sauce combines ingredients like mayonnaise and honey, adding fats and sugars that enhance flavor but increase calorie content. You can enjoy these tenders as a satisfying meal that balances savory and sweet elements while being mindful of its calorie and fat content.
Storage
Store leftover Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Use a shallow layer in the container to avoid sogginess, and reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness without losing flavor. Your sauce should be stored separately in a sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3 days to keep the tangy, smoky taste intact.
Variation or Alternatives
For a gluten-free variation, swap the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a blend of rice flour and potato starch to maintain crispiness. You can bake the chicken tenders at 400degF (205degC) on a wire rack over a sheet pan for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, to reduce oil usage while keeping them juicy. Adding a teaspoon of smoked chipotle powder to the marinade intensifies the smoky flavor profile for a bolder taste. Your tenders will pair wonderfully with a side of fresh celery sticks or a cucumber salad to balance the richness of Slim's Sauce.
Allergies
Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders contain common allergens such as eggs and mustard present in the mayonnaise and yellow mustard in the sauce. The breading on the chicken includes wheat from the all-purpose flour, which may affect those with gluten sensitivity or wheat allergies. Your allergy concerns should also consider the presence of dairy from the buttermilk and potential cross-contact with other ingredients like garlic and paprika that may trigger sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
Slim's Sauce Chicken Tenders from Slim Chickens restaurant are loved for their perfect balance of bold, tangy flavors and tender, juicy chicken. The signature sauce combines a unique blend of spices that enhances the crispy texture, making every bite flavorful and addictive. You'll appreciate how easy it is to recreate this crave-worthy dish at home, giving you control over spice levels and freshness. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality tenders without the wait or expense.