Zaxby’s Fried Chicken Tenders

Zaxby’s Fried chicken tenders are known for their crispy coating, juicy interior, and bold flavours. This recipe will allow you to recreate these golden, tender bites at home. These tenders are great for snacking or as a meal.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders

• Chicken tenders 1 lb (approximately 6-8 pieces).
• Buttermilk, 1 cup
• Add 1 tsp of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• 1 tbsp of garlic powder
• 1 tbsp of onion powder
• 1 tsp of paprika
• Cayenne pepper, optional (for a little kick).
• 1 tsp of salt
• Black pepper, 1/2 tsp
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. Baking powder (for an extra crunch).
• 1/2 tsp of paprika
• Vegetable Oil (for Frying)

Dipping Sauce:

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• Zaxby’s Signature Sauce or your favourite sauce, 1 tbsp

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken:

The marinating chicken will keep it flavorful and juicy. Combine the buttermilk with the hot sauce, garlic powder, onion, paprika and cayenne in a large bowl. Mix all spices. Add the tenders, making sure that each one is completely submerged in marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight for best results.

2. Prepare the Coating

The right coating is key to achieving that crispy crunch. Combine the flour, baking soda, and paprika in a separate bowl. Baking powder is necessary to make the coating crispy. After the marinade is done, remove the chicken and let any excess liquid drain off. Each tender should be dredged in the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure that each piece is coated evenly. Double-coating the chicken will give it a thicker layer. Dip the chicken in buttermilk, then again into the flour mixture.

3. Fry the chicken tenders:

It’s the frying that makes it all happen! In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350degF (or 175degC). You can check the temperature of the oil without a thermometer by dropping a small amount of flour into it. If the flour sizzles and the colour turns golden, then the oil is ready. Add the chicken tenders carefully to the hot oil. Be careful not to crowd the pan. Fry the chicken tenders in hot oil for 4-5 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they are golden brown and crisp. A meat thermometer is used to check that the temperature inside has reached 165degF. After cooking, remove the tenders and place them onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

4. Make the Dipping sauce (Optional).

You can prepare a simple dipping dish while the chicken is resting. Mix the Zaxby’s Signature Sauce and ranch dressing in a small bowl (or use your favourite dipping condiment). Stir until smooth and set aside.

5. Serve and enjoy:

Serve your fried chicken tenders with dipping sauce on the side. These tenders go well with fries, coleslaw or a simple side salad. They’re great as a meal or as a tasty snack.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, 3 tenders)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Conclusion:

Zaxby’s Fried Chicken tenders are easy to make at home and produce the same crispy, juicy results as you get in the restaurant. The flour coating adds a signature crunch to the chicken. The marinade makes it tender and flavorful. These tenders are great dipped in ranch sauce, Zaxby’s Signature Sauce or any other sauce of your choice.