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Homemade Chicken Fingers Recipe photo

Chicken Fingers Recipe

These Chicken Fingers are crispy, tender, and the ultimate comfort food! Perfect for dinner or a party appetizer!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fingers:

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Stepwise Method:

  • Start by placing the chicken tenderloins into a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • While the chicken is marinating, set up your breading station. In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour mixed with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second shallow dish, beat the two eggs. In a third dish, pour the panko breadcrumbs.
  • Once marinated, remove the chicken tenderloins from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
  • In a large frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1/4 inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  • Carefully place the breaded chicken fingers in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Once cooked, transfer the chicken fingers to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Shallow Dishes
  • Frying pan
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Paper Towels

Notes

  • For extra crunch, you can double-dip the chicken by re-dipping it in the eggs and panko breadcrumbs after the first coating.
  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to avoid soggy fingers.
  • If you prefer baking over frying, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.