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Perfect Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders. recipe photo

Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders.

These Crispy Turmeric Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crunchy and bursting with vibrant turmeric and coconut flavors. Perfect for a quick dinner or game day snack!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Snack
Keyword: Chicken, Crispy, Easy, Gluten-Free Option, Quick, Turmeric
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless chicken tenders

For the Coating:

  • 2 tablespoons brown rice flour
  • 3/4 cup brown rice flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste flaked sea salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 3/4 - 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 - 1/2 cup finely shredded unsweetened coconut
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 - 1 teaspoon ground turmeric use to your taste
  • 2 teaspoons lime zest
  • for brushing/drizzling extra virgin olive oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayo
  • 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, lime zest, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to create the marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

  • Add the boneless chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to achieve a crispy texture.

Prepare the Coating

  • In another bowl, mix together brown rice flour, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and additional garlic powder. Adjust turmeric and seasonings to taste.

Coat the Chicken

  • Remove chicken tenders from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tender in flour mixture evenly. For extra crunch, dip back in buttermilk then flour again.

Add Coconut

  • Sprinkle finely shredded unsweetened coconut over coated chicken tenders, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake the Tenders

  • Place coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle or brush with extra virgin olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature).

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

  • Whisk together mayo, buffalo sauce, ketchup, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Adjust flavors to taste.

Serve

  • Remove tenders from oven and let cool slightly. Serve with creamy dipping sauce and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Baking Sheet
  • Wire Rack
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Brush

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure tenderness and flavor.
  • For extra crispiness, double coat the tenders by dipping back into buttermilk and flour mixture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.