If you’re anything like me, the mere mention of Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders is enough to trigger a craving. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection—these tenders are what comfort food dreams are made of. My first taste was on a road trip down South, and I remember thinking, “This flavor needs to live in my kitchen.” After some trial, error, and a whole lot of taste-testing, I finally nailed the perfect copycat version—and I promise, you’re going to love it.
This homemade Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders recipe is ideal for family dinners, party platters, or just satisfying a fast-food craving from the comfort of your own kitchen. Ready to dive in?
Why You’ll Love This Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Authentic flavor: That tangy pickle-brined, subtly spiced crust is spot-on.
- Simple ingredients: You probably have everything in your pantry already.
- Crispy perfection: Golden brown crunch without compromising on tenderness.
- Versatile for any season: Serve with light summer salads or hearty winter sides.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 lbs boneless chicken tenders
- 1 cup dill pickle juice (for marinating)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp confectioner’s sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup peanut oil or canola oil (for frying)
How to Make Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders at Home
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The secret to Chick-Fil-A’s signature taste is in the marinade. Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with dill pickle juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—overnight if you want maximum flavor infusion.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash
Whisk the egg and milk together in a small bowl. This mixture helps the flour coating adhere to the chicken and adds extra moisture for that tender bite.
Step 3: Season the Flour
In a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, combine the flour, confectioner’s sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Shake or mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Drain the chicken from the marinade. Dip each tender into the egg wash, then transfer to the flour mixture. Shake or press gently to ensure a full, even coating.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tenders in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Cook each piece for 3–5 minutes, turning once, until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Crispy Chicken Tenders
- Double-dip: For extra crunch, dip the chicken in the egg wash and flour mixture twice.
- Don’t skip the sugar: Confectioner’s sugar adds a hint of sweetness that mimics the Chick-Fil-A flavor profile.
- Use a thermometer: Ensure oil temperature stays around 350°F for even cooking.
What to Serve with Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders
Summer Pairings:
- Coleslaw with apple cider vinaigrette
- Watermelon feta salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
Winter Favorites:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Macaroni and cheese
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
Sauces to Try:
- Classic Chick-Fil-A Sauce
- Honey mustard
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Buttermilk ranch
Storage & Reheating Tips
- To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Why Pickle Juice
The pickle brine is a genius trick. It tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with that distinct Chick-Fil-A tang. It’s what takes this recipe from “good” to “I could eat this every day” levels of great.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter version, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with cooking oil to help them crisp up.
Is peanut oil necessary?
It’s preferred for that authentic taste, but canola oil is a great alternative.
What cut of chicken works best?
Chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts work equally well. Just keep them uniform for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
Bringing the magic of Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders into your kitchen is easier than you think—and way more rewarding. You get all the flavor and crispiness without the drive-thru wait. These tenders are guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table, whether you’re serving them up for a family meal or game-day spread.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram, or leave a comment with your twist on the classic.
Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken tenders
- 1 cup dill pickle juice for marinating
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp confectioner’s sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust for heat
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup peanut oil or canola oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- The secret to Chick-Fil-A’s signature taste is in the marinade. Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with dill pickle juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—overnight if you want maximum flavor infusion.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash
- Whisk the egg and milk together in a small bowl. This mixture helps the flour coating adhere to the chicken and adds extra moisture for that tender bite.
Step 3: Season the Flour
- In a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, combine the flour, confectioner’s sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Shake or mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
- Drain the chicken from the marinade. Dip each tender into the egg wash, then transfer to the flour mixture. Shake or press gently to ensure a full, even coating.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
- Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tenders in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Cook each piece for 3–5 minutes, turning once, until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
- Transfer cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
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