Description

Craving that classic Southern crunch? These Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders deliver restaurant-quality flavor right at home. Perfect as a quick dinner, satisfying snack, or comfort food fix, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re planning dinner ideas for the family or searching for easy recipes that please a crowd, this one’s a guaranteed winner. They’re golden, crunchy, and delicious—everything you want in a homemade fried chicken dish. Ideal for easy dinner plans, lunchbox meals, or weekend food ideas!

Ingredients

1½ pounds chicken tenderloins

1 cup buttermilk

1 egg

1½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Pour over chicken tenderloins in a zip-top bag or bowl. Marinate for 1 hour (or overnight).
In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all seasonings.
Remove chicken from marinade and dredge in flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner