Deep-Frying Chicken Tenderloins: How Long Should You Fry?

Chicken tenderloins are a popular meal choice for many, but how long do you need to deep fry them for that golden, crispy finish? The answer depends on a few factors, such as the type of oil used, the size of the chicken pieces, and the desired level of crispiness.

Most recipes recommend heating the oil to around 350-375°F before adding the chicken. Smaller pieces of chicken will take less time to cook, with some recipes suggesting 5-8 minutes in the fryer for golden brown results. Larger pieces may need up to 10 minutes. It's important not to overcrowd the fryer, as this can bring down the oil temperature and affect the cooking time and crispiness of the chicken.

So, for perfectly cooked and crispy chicken tenderloins, aim for a temperature of 350-375°F and fry in batches for 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.

How to prepare chicken tenderloins for frying

Preparing chicken tenderloins for frying is a simple process, but it does require some practice to get it just right. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare chicken tenderloins for frying:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenderloins

Start by patting the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. You can use whole chicken tenderloins or slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch thick strips.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls for the breading station. In the first bowl, place the flour and mix in any desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika. In the second bowl, beat the eggs with a small amount of water. You can also add garlic salt to this mixture. The third bowl should contain breadcrumbs, with ground black pepper and cayenne pepper mixed in.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each piece of chicken and coat it first in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and finally back in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Place the coated chicken tenderloins on a wire rack or plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps the coating stick better and also allows the chicken to dry a little, resulting in a crispier texture when fried.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

Fill a large pot, deep skillet, or deep fryer with about 2 inches of oil. Heat the oil to a temperature of 365-375°F (190°C). You can use a candy thermometer to check the temperature, or simply drop a small piece of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken tenderloins into the oil in small batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when it is done.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Remove the fried chicken tenderloins from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle with a little extra salt, if desired. Serve the chicken tenderloins hot with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.

The best oil for frying chicken tenderloins

When frying chicken tenderloins, it's important to choose an oil with a high smoke point and a neutral flavour to achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy interior.

Canola oil

Canola oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavour, making it an excellent choice for frying chicken. It is also a healthier option as it has high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids while being low in saturated fats.

Vegetable shortening

Vegetable shortening is a solid fat commonly used for frying chicken in the South. It has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for achieving a crispy and golden-brown finish. This solid fat melts as it heats up.

Lard

Lard is another traditional option for Southern-style fried chicken recipes. It will give your chicken a rich, savoury flavour and an unparalleled crispy crust.

Peanut oil

Known for its high smoke point and nutty flavour, peanut oil is a great choice for frying chicken. It also has minimal flavour transfer, making it ideal for establishments serving multiple fried foods. However, peanut oil is less popular in commercial kitchens due to its high price point and potential to cause allergic reactions in those with nut allergies.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a healthier option for deep frying, with high levels of lauric acid and healthy fats. It is also lightly flavoured and odourless, adding a hint of sweetness while preventing flavour transfer.

Other oils

Other oils that can be used for frying chicken tenderloins include vegetable oil and olive oil.

How to make a dipping sauce for chicken tenderloins

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas and tips for creating delicious sauces to accompany your chicken tenderloins:

Classic Dipping Sauces

Create a simple yet classic dipping sauce by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. This sauce pairs well with chicken tenderloins, offering a creamy texture and a tangy kick.

Alternatively, you can make a honey mustard dipping sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, BBQ sauce (preferably a sweeter variety like Sweet Baby Rays), yellow mustard, and Dijon mustard. This sauce offers a balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it perfect for those who enjoy a blend of flavors.

Spicy and Creamy Options

If you're a fan of spicy food, consider making a Zaxby's-inspired dipping sauce. Simply whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce, and season with black pepper to taste. This sauce has a creamy texture with a spicy kick, making it perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.

For a lighter option, try a yogurt-based dipping sauce. Greek yogurt combined with lemon, garlic, and dill creates a creamy, bright, and vibrant sauce that pairs well with chicken tenderloins. You can also add some spice to this sauce by incorporating chipotles in adobo or jalapenos.

Sweet and Tangy Combinations

For a sweet and tangy option, mix together some honey, mustard, and BBQ sauce. This sauce has a similar flavor profile to the famous Chick-Fil-A sauce, offering a slightly smoky and sweet taste with a hint of tanginess.

Alternatively, you can make a bang bang sauce by combining chili and mayonnaise. This sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick to your chicken tenderloins and is perfect for those who enjoy a creamy texture with a bit of heat.

Additional Tips

When preparing your chicken tenderloins for frying, coat them in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. This will give your tenderloins a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices in the flour mixture to add extra flavor.

Remember to fry your chicken tenderloins in small batches to maintain a consistent temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help ensure a crispy texture and prevent the chicken from absorbing too much oil, resulting in a soggy texture.

How to store leftover chicken tenderloins

Frying chicken tenderloins is a great way to enjoy a classic, family-friendly meal. But what do you do when you have leftovers? Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover chicken tenderloins to keep them tasty and safe to eat:

Cooling and Storing:

• Allow the fried chicken tenderloins to cool down to room temperature before storing. Placing hot chicken directly in the refrigerator can cause condensation, leading to soggy breading.
• Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to store the chicken. This helps keep moisture out and prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Place a paper towel in the container with the chicken to absorb any excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Avoid overcrowding the container. Leave space between the tenderloin pieces to allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
• Label the container with the date of storage so you know when the chicken was prepared.
• Consume the leftover chicken within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and food safety.

Freezing:

• If you wish to store the chicken for a longer period, consider freezing. Wrap each tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place them in airtight freezer bags.
• Properly stored, frozen fried chicken can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• To thaw, simply transfer the frozen chicken to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• When ready to eat, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and reheat properly. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
• For best results, use a conventional oven or toaster oven to reheat. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and warm the chicken for about 10-20 minutes, depending on the amount of chicken and whether it's frozen or room temperature.
• The chicken is ready when it is heated through and the coating becomes crispy again.

By following these instructions, you can enjoy your leftover chicken tenderloins while maintaining their taste and texture. Remember to practise food safety and always consume leftovers within the recommended time frame.

How to check if chicken tenderloins are cooked

Frying chicken tenderloins is a quick and easy way to cook them. But how do you know when they're done? Here are some ways to check if your chicken tenderloins are cooked perfectly.

Checking the Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenderloins. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking poultry to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). However, some sources suggest that 160°F (71°C) is sufficient, and the meat will continue to cook for a few minutes after being removed from the heat.

Checking by Colour and Texture

If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can check the doneness of the chicken tenderloins by cutting into the thickest part of the meat. The meat should be opaque and white (not pink or translucent) throughout, and the juices should run clear. If there is any pink or the juices are reddish or pinkish, the chicken needs further cooking.

Checking with a Meat Tenderness Test

You can also use a meat tenderness test to check if your chicken is cooked. This involves poking or prodding the meat with a fork, finger, or tongs to assess its firmness. Raw chicken will feel soft and squishy, while cooked chicken will feel firm to the touch. However, this method may be less accurate than using a thermometer or checking the colour and texture.

Preventing Overcooking

Chicken tenderloins are best enjoyed when they are juicy and tender, so it's important not to overcook them. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. To prevent overcooking, remove the chicken from the heat when it reaches 160°F-165°F, as the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees while resting.

Resting the Meat

Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking also helps ensure it is cooked evenly throughout. During the resting period, the juices redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.

Now you know how to check if your chicken tenderloins are cooked to perfection!

Frequently asked questions