Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you love fried chicken but crave something a little zippier, meet your new obsession: Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders. These are not your run-of-the-mill tenders; they’re marinated in tangy pickle juice, double-dipped for extra juiciness, and fried until the crust is perfectly crisp and the inside is impossibly tender. Each bite sings with flavor, balancing robust seasoning and a gentle, pickle-y brightness that’ll have your tastebuds begging for more. Whether you’re serving them with your favorite dipping sauce or nestling them into a sandwich, these chicken tenders are a true flavor bomb you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders lies in a handful of everyday ingredients that combine to create something truly extraordinary. Each plays a role: marinating, tenderizing, and giving that signature crunch and pop of flavor—don’t skip a single one for best results!

• Chicken tenders: The star of the show—choose fresh, quality tenders for juiciest results.
• Pickle juice (for brining): This gives that unmistakable tang and helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
• Buttermilk: Adds a touch of creamy richness and helps the flour coating stick perfectly.
• Flour: Makes up the crisp, golden crust—don’t be afraid to pile it on for thicker crunch.
• Paprika: Lends a hint of color and subtle smoky flavor to the coating.
• Salt and pepper: The basics that dial up all the other flavors—season generously for best results.
• Oil for frying: Choose a neutral, high-heat oil like canola or vegetable for even browning and crispiness.

How to Make Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Brine the Chicken in Pickle Juice

Place your chicken tenders in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour in the pickle juice. Seal or cover, then let them soak in the fridge for at least 2 hours—go up to 4 hours if you want maximum tang and tenderness. The pickle juice works magic here, making the chicken extra juicy and infusing every bite with flavor.

Step 2: Soak in Buttermilk

Once your tenders are good and brined, drain off the pickle juice. Add the chicken to a bowl with the buttermilk and let them soak for another 30 minutes. This extra bath coats the chicken and creates the perfect glue for that crispy flour dredge, while also mellowing out the tang just a bit.

Step 3: Dredge in Seasoned Flour

In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Take each buttermilk-soaked tender and dredge it through the flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating clings thickly. You want every nook and cranny covered for the ultimate crunch. Lay the coated tenders on a wire rack for a few minutes—this helps set the crust so it doesn’t slide off in the oil.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Crisp

Heat a few inches of oil in a heavy skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken tenders in batches, without crowding the pan, for about 6–8 minutes or until deeply golden and cooked through. Flip once halfway and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if you want to be extra sure (165°F is your goal). Transfer finished tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to catch any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Arrange your Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders on a white platter and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Each piece will be wildly crisp, juicy, and loaded with tangy flavor—the hardest part is waiting for them to cool enough to eat!

How to Serve Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

For that finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the hot tenders. A few crunchy pickle slices alongside pay homage to the secret brine. Add a light dusting of flaky sea salt while they’re still warm for a touch of sparkle and an elevated bite.

Side Dishes

These tangy, crispy chicken tenders pair beautifully with an array of sides. Try classic French fries, creamy slaw, or a vibrant potato salad if you’re channeling picnic vibes. For a lighter meal, serve with a crunchy green salad and some thick-cut tomato slices—the acidity will make the flavors pop even more.

Creative Ways to Present

Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders are the ultimate party food. Pile them high on a marble platter lined with parchment and serve with a trio of dipping sauces for dunking. Make next-level sliders by tucking tenders into soft Hawaiian rolls with a swipe of spicy mayo and a few pickle chips. Or set up a DIY chicken tender board with everything from waffle fries to quick pickles, and watch the crowd swoon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers (hey, it happens!), let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The crust will soften a bit overnight, but the flavor stays spot-on—still tangy, still deeply satisfying.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders for future cravings. Lay cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and reheat surprisingly well from frozen.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven or toaster oven until hot and crispy—about 10–12 minutes. An air fryer does a fantastic job reviving the crunch, too. Avoid microwaving if you can; while quick, it tends to make the crust soggy instead of snappy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into strips for the same Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders experience. Just keep an eye on thickness for even cooking.

What type of pickle juice works best?

Dill pickle juice is classic and delivers that signature tang, but you can experiment with bread-and-butter or spicy pickle brines for unique twists. Just make sure it’s a juice you enjoy on its own!

Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can! Arrange breaded tenders on a parchment-lined sheet, spritz with oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once. They won’t be quite as crisp as fried, but you’ll still get tons of flavor.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to buttermilk?

Certainly—use a non-dairy milk (like almond or soy) mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes so it thickens slightly, then soak as directed.

Do I need a deep fryer to make Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders?

No deep fryer needed! A heavy skillet or Dutch oven works perfectly—just use enough oil for the tenders to float and fry evenly. Always use a thermometer for oil temperature, and you’re golden.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fried chicken recipe that’s a little unexpected and utterly craveable, Pickle Juice Fried Chicken Tenders are your answer. These are tangy, crunchy, joyful bites that will surprise everyone at the table. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your signature dish, too!

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