We absolutely love Houston’s Chicken Tenders Recipe for its irresistible crunch and juicy bite that keeps us coming back for more. Inspired by the iconic restaurant chain this dish brings a taste of casual dining right into our kitchens making it perfect for family dinners or game day treats.
What sets these tenders apart is their simple yet flavorful marinade that we’ve honed to perfection. We’re excited to share how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser ensuring your homemade version rivals the original every time.
Ingredients
To bring our crave-worthy Houston’s Chicken Tenders to life with their signature crunchy texture and juicy flavor, we gather these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
Marinade Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch strips for even cooking and tender results)
- 1 cup buttermilk (we recommend full-fat for maximum moisture and tang)
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot, to infuse that classic spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (freshly ground if possible, for aromatic depth)
Breading Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted to ensure a light, crispy coating)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch that mimics the original Houston’s style)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked variety adds a smoky essence without overpowering)
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher, to enhance flavors without excess sodium)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked for a bold, peppery note)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to complement the garlic and build layers of taste)
Cooking Essentials
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying; we suggest a high-smoke-point oil to achieve golden perfection without burning)
This selection ensures our Houston’s Chicken Tenders recipe remains simple yet flavorful, using everyday items to deliver restaurant-quality results at home.
Required Equipment
To bring our Houston’s Chicken Tenders to life with precision and ease, we gather the essential tools that ensure smooth preparation and optimal results. These items help us handle the marinating, breading, and cooking processes effectively while maintaining the dish’s signature crunchy texture and juicy flavor.
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the buttermilk, hot sauce, and garlic powder to create the marinade—ensures even coating of the chicken breasts.
- Whisk or fork: To blend marinade ingredients thoroughly, achieving a smooth mixture that infuses maximum flavor.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring out ingredients like buttermilk and spices, guaranteeing the recipe’s balance and authenticity.
- Baking sheet or wire rack: Ideal for resting breaded tenders before cooking, allowing excess flour to fall away and promoting crispiness.
- Deep frying pan or Dutch oven: Essential for frying the tenders to golden perfection—use one with high sides to manage oil splatters safely.
- Tongs: For flipping and removing tenders from hot oil without breaking the breading, preserving their shape and texture.
- Instant-read thermometer: To check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is juicy yet fully cooked.
- Paper towels or a cooling rack: For draining fried tenders post-cooking, which helps remove excess oil and keeps them crisp.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly from ingredient prep to the cooking steps.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our irresistible Houston’s Chicken Tenders, ensuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior that captures the restaurant’s signature appeal.
Prep Work
First, we start by preparing the chicken for maximum flavor infusion. Begin with 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, slicing them into even strips about 1-inch thick to promote uniform cooking and a tender bite.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of buttermilk, 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, whisking until fully blended for a tangy marinade that tenderizes the meat.
- Submerge the chicken strips in the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor absorption, allowing the buttermilk to work its magic and create that sought-after juiciness.
This step sets the foundation, infusing our tenders with a bold, zesty taste that makes every bite memorable.
Breading and Frying
Once marinated, we move on to breading and frying for that perfect golden crunch. Begin by setting up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with 1 cup of all-purpose flour mixed with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper, another with 2 beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly in the panko-flour blend, pressing gently to adhere for a robust, textured exterior.
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F, using an instant-read thermometer for precision—maintain this temperature to avoid greasy results.
Fry the breaded strips in batches for 4-6 minutes per side, flipping once with tongs until they reach a deep golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F, yielding a satisfying crisp sound and aroma that signals perfection. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil, preserving that enviable crunch we all crave.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Houston’s Chicken Tenders, we recommend pairing them with complementary sides and sauces that enhance their flavor profile. Serve the tenders hot alongside a classic dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard, which contrasts the spicy notes from the marinade.
- For a family meal, arrange them on a platter with fresh-cut fries or a crisp coleslaw to balance the richness.
- Amp up game day vibes by offering variations such as buffalo-style with blue cheese dip or as sliders with lettuce and tomato for added texture and taste.
Experiment with portion sizes—for 4 servings, aim for 6-8 tenders per person—to make this dish versatile for appetizers or mains, ensuring it becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Make-Ahead Tips
To help you streamline your meal prep for our Houston’s Chicken Tenders, we recommend these practical strategies that maintain flavor, texture, and safety. By preparing components in advance, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with less hassle on busy days.
Marinating in Advance
We suggest starting with the marinade, as it’s the foundation of those juicy, flavorful tenders. Prepare the marinade mixture—combining buttermilk, hot sauce, and garlic powder—as outlined in our earlier steps. Slice the chicken breasts into even strips, then submerge them in the marinade in a sealed container or zip-top bag. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor infusion. This not only saves time but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring each bite delivers that signature crunch we love.
Preparing the Breading Station
Get ahead by assembling your breading setup the night before. In separate bowls, mix your flour mixture (with salt, pepper, and any spices) and combine panko breadcrumbs with additional seasonings. Cover each bowl with plastic wrap or store in airtight containers in the fridge. This step keeps everything fresh and ready, so you can skip the prep rush when it’s time to coat the tenders—just remember to let the mixtures come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before use to ensure even adhesion.
Cooking and Storing Options
If you want to fully prepare the tenders ahead, fry or bake them according to our instructions, then cool completely on a wire rack. For short-term storage, place the cooked tenders in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Always label with the date to track freshness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to avoid sogginess. |
Reheating for Optimal Results
To preserve that golden, crunchy exterior, reheat your make-ahead tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy—instead, use an air fryer for 5–7 minutes if available. These methods ensure your Houston’s Chicken Tenders retain their irresistible texture and taste, making them perfect for quick meals or impromptu gatherings.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on Houston’s Chicken Tenders. It’s a recipe that brings restaurant-quality crunch right to your kitchen, perfect for any gathering.
By following our tips, you’ll create meals that impress family and friends while keeping things simple and fun. Give it a try and make it your go-to favorite—we know it’ll become one of yours too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Houston’s Chicken Tenders recipe about?
Houston’s Chicken Tenders recipe is a simple, crowd-pleasing dish featuring crunchy, juicy tenders made with everyday ingredients. It focuses on a flavorful buttermilk marinade with hot sauce and garlic powder, followed by a panko breadcrumb coating for that signature restaurant texture. Perfect for family dinners or snacks, it promises easy prep and delicious results at home.
What ingredients are needed for Houston’s Chicken Tenders?
You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, flour, and panko breadcrumbs as the main components. Seasonings like salt and pepper enhance the flavor. Precise measurements include about 1 cup buttermilk, 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce, and a mix of 1 cup flour with 1 cup panko for the breading, ensuring a tasty, crunchy finish.
What equipment is required to make Houston’s Chicken Tenders?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl for marinating, a whisk or fork for blending, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a baking sheet or wire rack for resting, and a deep frying pan or Dutch oven for cooking. Use tongs for handling, an instant-read thermometer for safety, and paper towels or a cooling rack to drain oil and keep them crispy.
How do I prepare Houston’s Chicken Tenders?
Start by slicing chicken into strips and marinating in buttermilk, hot sauce, and garlic powder for at least an hour. Set up a breading station with flour, then egg wash, then panko mix. Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F. Drain on paper towels for the best texture.
Can I make Houston’s Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to boost flavor and tenderness. Prepare the breading mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Cooked tenders can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness and avoid sogginess.
What are the best ways to serve Houston’s Chicken Tenders?
Serve them hot with classic dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for extra flavor. Pair with sides such as fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re versatile for appetizers, main courses, or game day snacks, and you can customize with variations like spicy seasoning or baked options for healthier twists.