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Crispy Gluten-Free Fried Chicken Tenders Easy Extra Crunch Recipe

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These crispy gluten-free fried chicken tenders feature a double coating of gluten-free flour, panko, and crushed cornflakes for unbeatable crunch, marinated in buttermilk for juicy, flavorful results. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders, fresh or thawed
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or dairy-free milk with 1 tbsp vinegar for a substitute)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup (60g) gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (90g) gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup (30g) crushed cornflakes (gluten-free certified)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil or avocado oil (enough for shallow frying, about 1-2 inches deep)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders and toss to coat fully. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine the gluten-free flour, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow dish, mix the gluten-free panko and crushed cornflakes.
  3. Remove the tenders from the marinade one at a time, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, then dip back briefly in the marinade, and finally press into the panko-cornflake mix, coating all sides.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to about 1-2 inches depth. Heat on medium to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully place coated tenders in hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip gently with tongs.
  6. Transfer fried tenders to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and maintain crispness. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a wire rack instead of paper towels to drain excess oil to keep tenders crisp. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy or burnt coating. Double coating (flour, marinade, crumbs) ensures extra crunch and adhesion. Do not overcrowd the pan when frying. Let tenders rest after frying to allow juices to redistribute and coating to firm up.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free fried chicken, crispy chicken tenders, gluten-free chicken recipe, dairy-free fried chicken, crunchy chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/crispy-gluten-free-fried-chicken-tenders-easy-extra-crunch-recipe/