Zaxby’s is a popular fast-food chain known for its delicious chicken tenders. These crispy and flavorful chicken tenders are a favorite among many, and now you can enjoy them in the comfort of your own home with this easy Zaxby’s chicken tender recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the taste of Zaxby’s chicken tenders and impress your family and friends.
To make the best Zaxby’s chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins
– 1 cup of buttermilk
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl and toss to coat them in the buttermilk mixture. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
3. In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Take each chicken tenderloin from the buttermilk mixture and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
6. Carefully place the coated chicken tenderloins into the hot oil. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve the Zaxby’s chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or Zax sauce.
Now that you have the recipe to make your own Zaxby’s chicken tenders, it’s time to answer some common questions about this delicious dish:
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins. Simply cut them into strips or nugget-sized pieces before marinating and frying.
2. Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders if you prefer a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake them for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and crispy.
3. How can I make the chicken tenders spicier?
If you prefer a spicier version, you can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of heat.
4. Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken tenders after they have been fried. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
5. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.
6. What are some recommended dipping sauces for the chicken tenders?
Some popular dipping sauces for Zaxby’s chicken tenders include ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, and Zax sauce.
7. Can I use an air fryer instead of frying in oil?
Yes, you can use an air fryer to cook the chicken tenders. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook them for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy your homemade Zaxby’s chicken tenders and impress your taste buds with this easy and delicious recipe!