Name: Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless chicken tenders; 2 tablespoons brown rice flour; 3/4 cup brown rice flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; flaked sea salt; black pepper; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup finely shredded unsweetened coconut; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 2 teaspoons lime zest; extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup mayo; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 1 tablespoon ketchup; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

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There’s something truly special about making Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders at home, especially when you’ve got friends or family around. I remember my first time trying to impress some guests with a homemade meal, and these tenders were the star of the show. The aroma filled the kitchen, and as I pulled them out of the oven, the golden color had everyone drooling. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up and are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun game night with friends. You simply can’t go wrong with crispy chicken tenders that pack a punch of flavor from the turmeric and spices. I love serving these with a tangy dipping sauce that complements the crunchy exterior and juicy chicken. You’ll find that everyone will want to go for seconds, and you’ll be proud to say you made them from scratch. Trust me, once you start making these, they’ll become a regular on your dinner table!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Best Thing About This Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders

1. Flavor Explosion

It’s hard to beat the combination of spices in Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders. The infusion of turmeric, smoked paprika, and a hint of lime zest creates an exciting flavor profile that surprises your taste buds with every bite. Each tender is seasoned to perfection, making them far more delicious than anything you’d find in a fast food restaurant.

2. Crunchy Texture

There’s nothing quite like that first bite of a crispy chicken tender. The coating, made from brown rice flour and coconut, creates an irresistible crunch that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the perfect contrast to the juicy, tender chicken inside, ensuring you have a delightful experience with each piece.

3. Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to nail this recipe. With just a few simple steps, you can have a plateful of Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders ready in no time. It’s a straightforward process, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute get-togethers.

4. Versatile Serving Options

One of the best things about these tenders is how versatile they are. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic ranch to spicy buffalo sauce, or even make a zesty yogurt dip. They’re also great on their own as a snack or paired with salads for a light meal.

5. Healthy and Wholesome

With this recipe, you’re not only treating yourself but also making a healthier choice. Using buttermilk provides a tenderizing effect on the chicken, and the spices have numerous health benefits. Plus, you know exactly what ingredients are going into your meal, allowing you to feel good about serving them to your loved ones.

Ingredients Required for Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just delicious but also nourishing. The combination of spices, the crunch from the flour and coconut, and the juicy chicken make this a standout meal. Each ingredient plays a vital role, working together to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

2 pounds boneless chicken tenders – The star of the dish, these tenders offer a juicy and tender bite that pairs perfectly with the crispy coating.
2 tablespoons + 3/4 cup brown rice flour – This gluten-free flour not only adds crunch but also helps with binding the flavors to the chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds an aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste.
flaked sea salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors of the dish.
3/4 – 1 cup buttermilk – Provides moisture and helps the coating adhere better to the chicken.
1/4 – 1/2 cup finely shredded unsweetened coconut – Adds a unique texture and slight sweetness to the coating.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Introduces a smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s complexity.
1/2 – 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, use to your taste – Gives the dish its vibrant color and earthy flavor.
2 teaspoons lime zest – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the chicken.
extra virgin olive oil, for brushing/drizzling – Helps in achieving a golden, crispy texture.
1/2 cup mayo – Used in the accompanying sauce for creaminess.
1/4 cup buffalo sauce – Adds a kick of heat to the dish.
1 tablespoon ketchup – For a touch of sweetness in the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – A second dose of flavor for the dipping sauce.

How to Cook Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders

Cooking Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that results in a mouthwatering meal. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy chicken tenders every time. You’ll want to keep an eye on the color and texture to ensure they turn out golden and crisp.

Preheat your oven to 450° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or rub it with olive oil. This step is crucial as the parchment helps in easy cleanup, and oil aids in crisping.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, 2 tablespoons brown rice flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated, which will help layer the flavors.
In another bowl, mix 3/4 cup brown rice flour, finely shredded unsweetened coconut, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and lime zest. Pour in the buttermilk and mix until you achieve a thick batter. If it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more buttermilk to get the right consistency.
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the batter and toss until they are thoroughly coated. Make sure every piece is covered for a complete flavor experience.
Place each tender on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s space between each piece; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
Drizzle the chicken generously with olive oil to help with browning. Bake for about 10 minutes, watching carefully as the aroma starts to fill your kitchen.
After 10 minutes, remove the pan from the oven. Spoon any remaining batter from the bowl onto the chicken. This ensures they stay flavorful and adds extra crunch.
Drizzle the chicken again with olive oil and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is crispy and golden brown all around.
Once baked, sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavor further.
For the sauce, combine mayo, buffalo sauce, ketchup, and garlic powder in a bowl. Mix well until smooth.
Serve your Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders with the sauce on the side and enjoy every crispy, juicy bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Resting the chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking enhances the juiciness and retains moisture.
Checking doneness: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F for safety.
Even coating: Make sure to coat the chicken evenly in the batter for the best texture.
Oil for crunch: Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it’s essential for achieving that golden crispiness.

Variations to Try

There are countless ways to switch up your Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders. Whether you want to play with the flavors or try new serving ideas, these tips will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Freezing: These tenders freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months.
Spicy Twist: Add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a spicy kick!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the batter for an additional flavor layer.
Serving Styles: Try serving these tenders on a bed of greens for a light salad or in a wrap with fresh veggies.
Make it a Meal: Pair with roasted veggies or a side of quinoa for a complete dinner.

Pairing Suggestions for Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders

When serving Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders, consider a variety of side dishes and styles to complement the flavors beautifully. Here’s how you can elevate your meal:

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the tenders.
Seasoned Rice: Serve with a side of seasoned rice or quinoa, which can soak up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Adding roasted seasonal vegetables adds a healthy, colorful touch to your plate.
Dipping Sauces: Provide a variety of sauces, including ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli, to cater to everyone’s taste.
Game Day Treat: These tenders are perfect for game day, served alongside chips and dip for a casual gathering.
Drinks Pairing: Pair with a refreshing homemade lemonade or iced tea to cleanse the palate.
Seasonal Themes: Incorporate seasonal sides depending on the time of year, like sweet potato fries in fall or a light cucumber salad in summer.

FAQ

Absolutely! While chicken tenders are typically more tender and juicy, you can use boneless chicken breasts cut into strips. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as breasts may take a little longer to cook through. The goal is to achieve that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside moist.

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes before using it in the recipe. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and acidity that buttermilk provides.

To make your Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders gluten-free, simply replace the brown rice flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just be mindful that different flours may alter the texture slightly, so it might take some experimenting to find your preferred option!

Yes, baking is a great way to prepare Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders! In fact, this recipe is designed for baking, which keeps the chicken juicy while giving you that crispy exterior. Just ensure to space out the tenders on the baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil to help achieve a nice crunch.

Conclusion

The beauty of Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders lies in their delightful crunch and zesty flavor, making them a favorite for gatherings or weeknight dinners. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s an easy yet impressive dish that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them straight from the oven or with a variety of dipping sauces, these tenders are sure to bring joy to your table. So why not make them tonight? You won’t regret it!