This Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders Recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and is made all in one pot for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that your family will love!
Ingredient Breakdown
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! Here’s what you’ll need for these amazing fried sourdough chicken tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into 1/2-inch strips: Tender and juicy, these are your main attraction!
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the crispy coating that we all crave.
- 1/2 cup milk: For that perfect batter consistency.
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter discard: The secret ingredient that gives these tenders a tangy depth of flavor!
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: This kicks the batter up a notch, making it light and fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds that extra layer of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley: An optional but lovely touch for color and freshness.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: Just a hint of heat, adjust to taste!
- 1 tsp salt: A couple pinches to enhance all those yummy flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Because we don’t want bland food, right?
- 2 cups neutral cooking oil: Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil will do beautifully for frying.
Let’s Get Cooking!
About 30 minutes before frying, remove the chicken from the fridge. This helps it come to room temperature for even cooking. Meanwhile, grab a sturdy cast iron pan or Dutch Oven and add 2 cups of neutral oil. I love using cast iron for frying, it gets nice and hot! Bring it up to medium-high heat.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk, sourdough discard, and seasonings (baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, cayenne, salt, and black pepper). Whisk until smooth. This will be your batter that’s going to make the chicken soooo good, just wait!
If you’re using chicken breast instead of tenders, slice them into 1/2 to 1-inch thick pieces. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Now comes the fun part! Using tongs, dip each piece of chicken into the batter. Let any excess drip off before placing it gently into that hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan because we want that perfect crispy coating. Fry in small batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and loaded with flavor, give them a flip halfway through!
Cook those tenders until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the batter is golden brown, about 6-8 minutes total per batch. It’ll look crunchy and inviting! Using your trusty tongs, remove them from the pan and let them drain on a paper towel. This little step helps eliminate extra oil, keeping them crispy for later.
If you loved this Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders Recipe, be sure to check out my best sourdough bread recipes,!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together in under 30 minutes. Pop it on your dinner rotation when you want something comforting and filling without a ton of effort!
Budget-Friendly
Using chicken tenders or even chicken breast means you’re sticking to affordable, everyday ingredients. Plus, the sourdough starter discard helps you avoid waste while eating delicious food, it’s a win-win!
Crowd-Pleaser
The whole family will love it! You’ll hear the kiddos (or your partner) begging for seconds, and I’d be surprised if they didn’t.
Customizable
Use whatever ingredients you have! Feel free to experiment with different spices or to add in some finely chopped veggies into the batter, there are endless possibilities. Let your creativity shine!
Comfort Food
Loaded with tons of flavor, these fried sourdough chicken tenders are pure comfort food that brings warmth and happiness to any dinner table. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ll feel right at home.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve This Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders Recipe
Serve these delightful chicken tenders with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even a veggie platter. They’re perfect with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or even good old ketchup!
Storage
If you have leftovers (which is rarely the case in my house!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before popping them in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
The best way to reheat is in a hot oven (about 350 degrees) for 10-15 minutes, which will help crisp them back up. Microwaving will make them soggy, so I’d avoid that if possible.
Freezer Friendly
These tenders are not ideal for freezing as the batter won’t hold up well after thawing. But hey, if you really need to, you can freeze them uncooked and breaded before frying them.
So there you have it! This Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders Recipe is quick, easy, and downright delightful! Give it a try, and you just might discover your new favorite weeknight dinner.
Happy cooking! And don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Fried Sourdough Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- About 30 minutes before frying, remove the chicken from the fridge to help it come to room temperature.
- In a sturdy cast iron pan or Dutch Oven, add 2 cups of neutral oil and bring it up to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk, sourdough discard, and seasonings (baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, cayenne, salt, and black pepper). Whisk until smooth.
- If using chicken breast instead of tenders, slice them into 1/2 to 1-inch thick pieces and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Using tongs, dip each piece of chicken into the batter, letting any excess drip off.
- Gently place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry in small batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the batter is golden brown, about 6-8 minutes total per batch.
- Remove the tenders from the pan and let them drain on paper towels.