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Chicken tenders have earned their place as a beloved staple in many households. Their widespread popularity can be attributed to their tender texture, ease of preparation, and the ability to pair them with various sauces and sides. From kids to adults, everyone seems to have a soft spot for these golden-breaded morsels.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Discover the irresistible Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, a delicious twist on a comfort food classic. This recipe features juicy, crispy chicken tenders paired with a rich, buttery sauce that combines fresh herbs and spices for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these tenders promise to be a hit with everyone around the table. Experience the nostalgic warmth of home-cooked meals with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Cowboy Butter:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips, making sure they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).

    Prepare the Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In a second bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

      Bread the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken strips out of the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each strip in flour, then dip it back in the buttermilk, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs, pressing down gently to adhere.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. To test, drop a few breadcrumbs into the oil; if they sizzle, it’s ready.

          Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

            Make the Cowboy Butter: While the chicken is frying, in a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, parsley, chives, cilantro, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until combined.

              Serve: Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot, drizzled with cowboy butter or with the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes | 4 servings