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If you’re on the lookout for a dish that effortlessly combines comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders. This unique recipe features succulent chicken tenders coated in a rich, flavorful cowboy butter that elevates a classic dish into something truly special. Perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or even casual parties, these chicken tenders are sure to impress and satisfy diners of all ages.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Discover the deliciousness of Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, where comfort food meets gourmet flair. This recipe features tender chicken tenders coated in a rich cowboy butter blend, creating a flavor explosion that's perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or casual gatherings. With its crispy texture and savory taste, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Easy to make and versatile, it’s a must-try for any home cook looking to delight their guests. Enjoy the experience of cooking this mouthwatering meal!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb chicken breast tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)

For the Cowboy Butter:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix the all-purpose flour with salt and pepper. In the second dish, place the buttermilk mixture. In the third dish, combine Panko breadcrumbs, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

      Bread the Chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the tender in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it back into the buttermilk, then coat it thoroughly in the Panko breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for all tenders.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom, about ½ inch deep. Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350°F or 175°C).

          Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil (do not overcrowd). Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

            Prepare the Cowboy Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.

              Serve: Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a platter and serve with Cowboy Butter drizzled on top or in a small bowl as a dipping sauce. Enjoy!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr 20 min | 4 servings