Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders

If you’re on the hunt for a crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken recipe that stands out from the usual, then these Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders are exactly what you need. The secret lies in the brining process—soaking the chicken tenders in tangy pickle brine infuses them with a subtle zing and keeps the meat incredibly moist. When paired with a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating and fried to golden perfection, these tenders will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them up for a game day snack, a casual dinner, or a fun party appetizer, these tenders deliver big taste and unbeatable texture in every bite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes this recipe truly special is the use of pickle brine as a marinade. The acidity and spices in the brine tenderize the chicken while imparting a unique flavor profile that you won’t get from a traditional brine or marinade. Instead of using a plain buttermilk soak, the pickle brine adds a subtle tang that complements the savory coating perfectly. If you love recipes that bring a little twist to classic fried chicken, then these tenders are a must-try. Plus, the breading is packed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, creating layers of flavor that enhance every bite.

If you enjoy experimenting with flavorful chicken recipes, you might also want to check out the Southern Fried Chicken Recipe, which offers a classic twist on crispy chicken that’s just as irresistible. But if you’re ready to take your chicken tenders up a notch, this pickle-brined method will become your go-to.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pickle brine (from your favorite jar of pickles)
• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
• Vegetable oil for frying

How To Make Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

Pour your pickle brine into a bowl or a resealable bag, then add the chicken tenders. Make sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness. This step is key to ensuring juicy chicken with that signature pickle tang.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the chicken tenders from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Dip each tender first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumbs. Set the breaded tenders aside on a plate.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or deep frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 1 inch of the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles and browns quickly, you’re ready.

Step 5: Fry the Tenders

Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Use tongs to turn the tenders gently to maintain their crispy coating.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the cooked tenders and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Expert Tips

• Use the pickle brine from dill pickles for the best flavor. You can even try making your own quick refrigerator garlic dill pickles to customize your brine taste and ingredients.
• Pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick and prevent sogginess.
• Maintain the oil temperature while frying to keep the coating crispy and prevent greasy chicken.
• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs or mix half panko and half regular breadcrumbs.
• Don’t skip the seasoning in the flour mixture—it adds a ton of flavor inside the coating.
• Fry in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan, which lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy tenders.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Pickle-Brined Tenders: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a smoky heat.
• Oven-Baked Version: After breading, place tenders on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
• Herb-Infused Brine: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your pickle brine before soaking for an aromatic twist.
• Cheesy Coating: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra savory crunch.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy. Leftovers also work well cold in sandwiches or wraps for a quick meal.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pickle brine for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pickle brine works perfectly and is the easiest way to infuse your chicken tenders with that classic tangy flavor. Just make sure the brine is from dill pickles for the best results.

How long should I brine the chicken tenders?

For optimal flavor and moisture, brine the chicken tenders for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours. Avoid brining too long, as the chicken can become overly salty or mushy.

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the tenders at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This is a healthier option that still delivers great flavor and a crispy coating.

What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with ranch, honey mustard, spicy mayo, or even a simple ketchup. The tang of the pickle brine complements creamy and savory dips equally well.

Conclusion

These Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders offer a fresh and exciting way to enjoy a classic favorite. The pickle brine not only adds incredible flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender inside a perfectly crispy coating. Whether you fry or bake them, these tenders are sure to be a hit at your table. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. So next time you want to elevate your chicken game, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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