Buttermilk Crusted Chicken Tenders with Herb Dipping Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy, golden chicken tenders marinated in buttermilk and coated in a savory herb-flour mixture, served with a tangy fresh herb sauce for an irresistible weeknight meal. This american-inspired chicken ready in about 40 minutes blends chicken tenders, buttermilk, all-purpose flour into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 30 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 American cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place 1 lb chicken tenders in a shallow dish and pour 1 cup buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Step 2: In a separate shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Step 3: Remove chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Step 4: Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot (about 350°F).
  5. Step 5: Carefully add floured chicken tenders to the hot oil in a single layer without overcrowding, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Step 6: Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. Step 7: While chicken cooks, mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tbsp fresh chives, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp salt to make the herb sauce.
  8. Step 8: Serve chicken tenders hot with the herb dipping sauce on the side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Buttermilk Crusted Chicken Tenders with Herb Dipping Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (30 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Buttermilk Crusted Chicken Tenders with Herb Dipping Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Buttermilk Crusted Chicken Tenders with Herb Dipping Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Buttermilk Crusted Chicken Tenders with Herb Dipping Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Buttermilk Crusted Chicken Tenders with Herb Dipping Sauce?

American chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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