Why Pickle Brine?

Using pickle brine as a marinade is a game-changer for chicken tenders. The natural acidity of the pickle juice helps break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. Additionally, the brine imparts a tangy, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the chicken. Combined with buttermilk, the marinade not only tenderizes but also creates a flavorful base that complements the crispy coating.

Pickle brine is a sustainable choice as well, giving you a delicious use for leftover pickle juice that might otherwise go to waste. It’s an innovative way to elevate a simple dish into something extraordinary.

The Perfect Crispy Coating

The hallmark of any great chicken tender is its crispy, golden-brown coating. In this recipe, the coating is made from self-rising flour seasoned with a blend of spices. The use of self-rising flour ensures a light and airy crust, while the addition of seasoned salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper provides a flavorful kick. For extra crunch, a touch of the marinade is added to the flour mixture, creating small, crispy pockets in the breading.

When fried, this coating becomes irresistibly crispy, locking in the juiciness of the chicken. The result is a tender that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside—everything you want in a comfort food classic.

The Role of Fried Pickle Chips

Fried pickle chips are the ultimate sidekick to these chicken tenders. They add a tangy crunch that perfectly complements the richness of the fried chicken. By using the same seasoning and dredging process, the pickles achieve a uniform flavor profile that ties the dish together. Their quick frying time makes them a simple yet impactful addition.

For those who enjoy bold flavors, spicy dill pickles are a fantastic choice. The heat from the pickles adds another layer of complexity to the dish, making it even more memorable.

The Magic of Spicy Hot Honey

Spicy hot honey is the perfect finishing touch for this dish. The sweetness of the honey balances the tanginess of the pickle-brined chicken and the saltiness of the fried pickles. A hint of spice adds depth, creating a flavor explosion with every bite.

Making spicy hot honey at home is simple. Combine your favorite honey with a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper, and warm it gently to infuse the flavors. Drizzle it generously over the chicken and pickles for an irresistible sweet-and-spicy contrast.

Tips for Perfect Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor:
   Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours. Over-marinating can result in an overly tangy flavor.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer:
   Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F while frying to guarantee it’s fully cooked without overcooking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
   Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
4. Keep the Coating Crisp:
   After frying, place the tenders on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from softening the crust.
5. Customize the Heat:
   Adjust the cayenne pepper and choice of pickles to control the spice level. For a milder version, omit the cayenne and use regular dill pickles.

Serving Suggestions

Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some serving ideas to complete your meal:

1. Dips:
   Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy aioli for dipping. A creamy dill sauce is another excellent option.
2. Sides:
   Pair with coleslaw, mac and cheese, or sweet potato fries for a classic Southern spread.
3. Bread:
   Add the tenders to a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a tangy chicken sandwich.
4. Beverages:
   A cold glass of sweet tea, lemonade, or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe takes the humble chicken tender to the next level by combining unique elements like pickle brine, crispy fried pickles, and spicy hot honey. It’s a dish that’s both nostalgic and modern, appealing to fans of traditional comfort food while offering a gourmet twist.

The tangy brine ensures the chicken is moist and flavorful, while the crispy coating provides an irresistible crunch. The addition of fried pickles and hot honey creates a dynamic flavor profile that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy—all in one bite.

Customization Options

1. Make It Healthier:
   For a lighter version, bake the chicken tenders and pickles in the oven or cook them in an air fryer. Brush the tenders lightly with oil before cooking for a golden, crispy finish.
2. Vegetarian Option:
   Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets. Follow the same brining and coating process for equally delicious results.
3. Gluten-Free Alternative:
   Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to create a coating suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Extra Spicy:
   Add chili powder to the marinade or include hot sauce in the spicy honey for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders with crispy fried pickle chips and spicy hot honey are a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tangy marinade, golden crust, and dynamic flavor combinations make this recipe a standout. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or preparing a comforting family meal, these tenders are sure to impress.

Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders

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• Author: SOPHIA

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Description

Pickle-Brined Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of tangy, tender, and crispy. Soaked in a flavorful brine of pickle juice and buttermilk, these tenders are fried to golden perfection and served with crispy fried pickle chips. For an added kick, drizzle them with spicy hot honey—perfect for any Southern gathering or a delicious comfort meal.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• For the Marinade:
  • 1/2 cup spicy dill pickle juice (from a 24-oz jar)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup whole buttermilk
• For the Chicken:
  • 2 lbs chicken breast tenders
  • 2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper (plus more for serving)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Peanut or vegetable oil for frying
• For the Pickles:
  • 1 cup spicy dill pickle chips
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (remaining from marinade)
• For Garnish:
  • Honey (for drizzling)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together pickle juice, egg, and 1 cup of buttermilk until smooth. Add the chicken tenders to the mixture, cover, and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
2. Prepare the Oil:
   Heat peanut or vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of 1½ inches. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F (approximately 10 minutes).
3. Coat the Chicken:
   In a shallow bowl, combine flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if desired), and 3 tablespoons of the marinade. Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and dredge each tender in the flour mixture, patting to coat evenly. Shake off excess flour and place on a plate.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   Working in batches, fry the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, turning occasionally, for 4–6 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Let the oil return to 350°F between batches.
5. Fry the Pickles:
   Combine the remaining pickle chips and buttermilk in a small bowl. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pickles to the flour mixture, coating evenly. Fry the pickles in the hot oil until golden brown (approximately 2 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
   Arrange the fried chicken tenders and fried pickle chips on a platter. Sprinkle with black pepper and drizzle with honey. Serve with additional pickle chips on the side if desired.

• Category: Lunch