Ingredients
Buttermilk Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins (about 8 tenderloins)
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
Seasoned Flour Coating
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups canola oil for frying
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Buttermilk Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until fully blended to create the marinade base.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Make the Seasoned Flour Coating: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, corn starch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until evenly combined.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the canola oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor for accurate frying temperature.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken tenderloin from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere a thick, even coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken fingers into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to turn the chicken fingers and remove them once internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Rest: Transfer the cooked chicken fingers to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes to retain their crispiness.
- Prepare the Cane’s Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Plate the crispy chicken fingers with a generous side of the homemade Cane’s sauce for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer intensifies flavor and tenderness; do not skip this step.
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent around 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
- For a spicier coating, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour.
- This recipe is best served fresh; leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer to restore crispiness.
- You can substitute canola oil with peanut or vegetable oil suitable for frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American