Crispy Pickle Brine Chicken Tenders (Print Version)

Enjoy crispy chicken tenders infused with pickle brine flavor.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
02 - 1 cup (240 ml) dill pickle brine (from a jar of pickles)
03 - 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

→ Breading

04 - 1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
05 - ½ cup (65 g) cornstarch
06 - 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
11 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ To Fry

12 - 2 large eggs
13 - 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or non-dairy milk for DF option)
14 - Vegetable oil, for frying

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a bowl, combine chicken tenders, pickle brine, and hot sauce (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours).
02 - Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
03 - In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together.
05 - Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, then back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly for a thick, crispy coating.
06 - Heat 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
07 - Fry the tenders in batches, 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate.
08 - Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -
  • Tangy pickle brine ensures every bite is flavorful and juicy.
  • Ridiculously crispy coating that's restaurant-quality but easy to make at home.
  • Simple ingredients and easy prep — just marinate, bread, and fry.
  • Customizable for your favorite dipping sauces and spice preferences.
  • Dairy-free option included without sacrificing crunch.
02 -
  • Marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but up to four hours if you want even more tang and tenderness.
  • Pat chicken very dry before breading for optimal crispiness.
  • Press the final flour coating firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, shattering crust.
  • Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding and keep oil temperature consistent.
  • Always use a thermometer for the oil for perfect golden tenders every time.
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