Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders with 10 Bold Flavors

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders bring the heat and crunch to your table, making every bite an unforgettable experience. These tenders are marinated in a flavorful buttermilk mixture, then fried to golden perfection. Finally, they’re glazed with a smoky, sweet, and tangy hot sauce blend that embodies the spirit of Southern cooking. If you’re looking for a bold appetizer or a hearty main dish, this recipe is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders

These crispy Nashville chicken tenders offer an explosion of flavors that make them irresistible. First, they’re perfectly crispy, ensuring a satisfying crunch with each bite. Second, the marinade infuses the chicken with moisture and taste, creating tender Nashville chicken bites. Third, the combination of spices, including cayenne pepper and smoked paprika, gives them that signature Southern fried chicken tenders flavor. Additionally, they’re easy to make for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering versatility. Lastly, with a spicy kick from the hot sauce, these tenders are sure to impress your guests. If you’re wondering why Nashville chicken tenders are popular, it’s because of their bold flavor and delightful crunch!

Ingredients for Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders

Gather these items:

1 cup / 240ml Buttermilk
1/4 cup / 60ml Pickle Juice
1/4 cup / 60ml Hot Sauce
1 Egg
1 tsp Salt
1.3 lb / 600g Chicken Tenders
1 3/4 cups / 250g Plain/All Purpose Flour
2 tsp Paprika
2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
3-4 cups / 750ml – 1 litre Vegetable, Peanut or Sunflower Oil
1/2 cup / 120ml Leftover Oil (from frying)
1/2 cup / 120ml Hot Sauce
2 tbsp Honey
1.5 tsp Smoked Paprika
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
Salt (to taste)

How to Make Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, hot sauce, egg, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Add chicken tenders to the marinade and tightly cover. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 or more. Remove from fridge 30 minutes before cooking to come to room temperature.
Step 3: In a large shallow dish or curved baking tray, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
Step 4: Remove each tender from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly press into the dry coating, ensuring all crevices are covered. Shake off excess and set aside. Repeat for all tenders.
Step 5: Heat oil in a suitable-sized pot or cast iron skillet to 350°F (175°C). Maintain temperature as best as possible during frying.
Step 6: Working in 3-4 batches, carefully place tenders into hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. The temperature may drop to around 320°F (160°C). Chicken should be cooked through and piping hot inside. Drain on a wire rack over a tray to catch excess oil.
Step 7: Once all tenders are fried and oil has cooled slightly, scoop out 1/2 cup oil into a small bowl. Whisk in hot sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt to taste until combined.
Step 8: Brush the hot chicken tenders all over with the prepared glaze for a glossy, flavorful finish.
Step 9: Serve immediately while hot for the best crispy and spicy experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders

Keep these in mind:

Marinating longer enhances flavor.
Adjust hot sauce for desired spice level.
For an extra crispy texture, double dip the tenders in the marinade and flour.
Ensure the oil temperature is consistent for perfect frying results.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders

These tenders are delightful on their own but are also fantastic with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. You can serve them on a bun for a Nashville hot chicken sandwich, or pair them with coleslaw and pickles for a classic Southern meal. Don’t forget to check out local eateries for the best Nashville chicken tenders near me.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders

To keep your crispy Nashville chicken tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispiness. This is a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders?

The secret lies in the marinating process. A longer marinade time allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply, resulting in tender Nashville chicken bites that are bursting with flavor.

Can I make Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just ensure to fry them fresh before serving to retain that crispy texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders?

Common mistakes include not letting the chicken reach room temperature before frying, which can lead to uneven cooking. Also, avoid overcrowding the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature.

Variations of Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders You Can Try

Consider trying different spice blends or marinades to create your unique twist on this recipe. You could use lemon pepper for a zesty flavor or add more heat with extra cayenne. For a healthier option, bake the tenders instead of frying them while still achieving that crispy texture!

Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders with 10 Bold Flavors - Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders - main visual representation

Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders with 10 Bold Flavors - Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders - additional detail

{
“@context”: “https://schema.org”,
“@type”: “ImageObject”,
“contentUrl”: “https://blogginghall.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Crispy-Nashville-Chicken-Tenders-1.jpg”,
“thumbnail”: “https://blogginghall.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Crispy-Nashville-Chicken-Tenders-1.jpg”,
“description”: “Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders with 10 Bold Flavors – Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders – main visual representation”,
“name”: “Crispy Nashville Chicken Tenders Recipe Image”,
“uploadDate”: “2023-10-01”,
“width”: “1200”,
“height”: “630”
}