Publix, a beloved supermarket chain in the southeastern United States, is famous for many things, but one item that stands out above the rest is their chicken tenders. Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, Publix Chicken Tender Recipe have earned a cult following. If you’ve ever found yourself craving these delicious tenders but don’t live near a Publix, you’re in luck. Today, we’ll dive into how to make Publix-style chicken tenders at home.
The Appeal of Publix Chicken Tenders
What makes Publix chicken tenders so irresistible? It’s a combination of perfectly seasoned breading, juicy chicken, and a frying technique that ensures a crispy exterior. These tenders are a hit for quick lunches, family dinners, and everything in between. They bring comfort and satisfaction with every bite, making them a staple in many households.
Ingredients for Publix Chicken Tenders
To recreate Publix chicken tenders, you’ll need some basic ingredients. The key is in the seasoning and the method of preparation. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (enough for deep frying)
Optional Dipping Sauce
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- Barbecue sauce
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Publix Chicken Tenders
Let’s walk through the process of making these delectable chicken tenders. Follow these steps to ensure your tenders are just as crispy and flavorful as the ones from Publix.
Preparing the Chicken
- Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips if you’re not using pre-cut tenders. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
Preparing the Breading
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and baking powder. The cornstarch helps achieve a crispier texture, while the baking powder adds lightness to the breading.
Breading the Chicken
- Preheat the Oil: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to maintain this temperature for even frying.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. For an extra crispy exterior, dip the breaded chicken back into the buttermilk and then again into the flour mixture.
Frying the Chicken
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Drain the Chicken: Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serving the Chicken Tenders
- Serve Hot: Serve the chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Honey mustard, ranch, and barbecue sauce are classic choices that pair well with the tenders.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Tenders
Using Buttermilk
Buttermilk is not only a tenderizer but also adds a subtle tang to the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Double Dipping
For an extra crispy exterior, double dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture. This additional step creates a thicker crust, giving you that signature crunch.
Oil Temperature
Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. Too hot, and the exterior will burn before the chicken is cooked through; too cool, and the chicken will absorb more oil, resulting in a greasy texture. Using a thermometer helps keep the oil at the optimal temperature.
Seasoning
Feel free to experiment with the seasoning. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture can give the tenders a nice kick, while herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist.
Variations on Publix Chicken Tenders
Spicy Chicken Tenders
For those who love a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. You can also mix chili powder into the flour mixture for an extra layer of spiciness.
Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the cornstarch is gluten-free. Follow the same steps, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free chicken tenders.
Baked Chicken Tenders
For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray the tenders with cooking spray and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Conclusion
Making Publix-style chicken tenders at home is not only possible but also incredibly satisfying. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy these delicious tenders anytime you want. The combination of the flavorful marinade and the crispy breading makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a game-day snack, or a casual get-together, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit.
For more ideas, recipes, and cooking tips and tricks, please visit us at Kobe Japanese Steak House.
FAQs About Publix Chicken Tender Recipe
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the tenders?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Thighs are juicier and can add a different flavor profile to the tenders.
How do I store leftover chicken tenders?
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded but uncooked chicken tenders. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?
Peanut oil is excellent for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Vegetable oil or canola oil are also good alternatives.
How can I make my chicken tenders extra crispy?
Double dipping the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture helps create a thicker, crunchier crust. Additionally, ensuring the oil is at the right temperature will give you that perfect crispy exterior.