Honey BBQ chicken tenders

Steps10

1. 1

   Step 1. Marinate the chicken

   1 h

   Whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt). Add the chicken tenders, coat fully, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

   Overnight marinating gives deeper flavor.

   Chicken tenderloinPickle brine
2. 2

   Step 2. Mix the dry batter

   In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all seasonings. Mix thoroughly.

   SaltGarlic powder3 tsp of 7 tspOnion powder3 tsp of 7 tspSmoked paprika3 tsp of 7 tspBlack pepper1 tsp of 2.5 tsp
3. 3

   Step 3. Dredge the tenders

   Remove each tender from the marinade and let excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture and press to coat. Return briefly to the wet marinade, then coat again in the flour mixture, pressing firmly.

   Chicken tenderloinButtermilkCornstarchBaking powder
4. 4

   Step 4. Rest the coated tenders

   10 min

   Place the coated tenders on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes.

   Chicken tenderloin
5. 5

   Step 5. Heat the oil

   Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350–360°F (175–182°C).

6. 6

   Step 6. Fry the tenders

   5 min

   Fry the tenders in batches for 4–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

   Chicken tenderloinOil
7. 7

   Step 7. Drain the tenders

   Transfer the fried tenders to a wire rack to drain and maintain crispness.

   Chicken tenderloin
8. 8

   Step 8. Simmer the glaze

   4 min

   In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine all glaze ingredients except the butter (ketchup, honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, brown sugar). Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

9. 9

   Step 9. Whisk in the butter

   Remove from heat and whisk in the cold butter until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

   Salt
10. 10

    Step 10. Make the creamy sauce

    In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and honey BBQ glaze until smooth. Add pickle juice and smoked paprika.

    Pickle brine