Daves Hot Chicken-Style Recipe: Spicy Fried Chicken Tenders

This recipe helps recreate the bold, crispy, and spicy chicken tenders inspired by Daves Hot Chicken.

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• Preparation Time – 20M
• Cooking Time – 15M
• Total Time – 35M

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Type

Main Course

Cuisine

American (Nashville Hot Chicken)

Calories

Approximately 450 calories per serving

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Flour Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Spice Oil (Hot Chicken Sauce):

• 1/4 cup frying oil (from the cooked chicken)
• 2 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Serving:

• Sliced pickles
• White bread or brioche buns
• Optional: Coleslaw, fries, dipping sauce

Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   • Add chicken tenders to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Prepare the Flour Coating:
   • In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
   • Coat each tender in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Set aside on a tray.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
   • Remove and drain on a wire rack.
5. Make the Spice Oil:
   • In a small bowl, mix cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, brown sugar, and salt.
   • Add 1/4 cup of the frying oil to the spice blend and stir until smooth.
6. Coat the Chicken:
   • Brush the cooked chicken with the spice oil for that signature hot chicken flavor.
7. Serve:
   • Place chicken tenders on bread slices or buns, topped with pickles. Add coleslaw on the side or in the sandwich if desired.

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Enjoy your homemade Dave’s Hot Chicken-inspired meal! Adjust spice levels based on your heat tolerance.