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Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game? These Crunchy Whiskey BBQ Bacon Chicken Tenders offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With their unique flavor profile, combining the sweetness of BBQ sauce with a hint of whiskey, they promise to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.

Crunchy Whiskey BBQ Bacon Chicken Tenders

Get ready for summer cookout vibes with these Crunchy Whiskey BBQ Bacon Chicken Tenders! This recipe combines tender chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating thats infused with a hint of whiskey and smoky BBQ goodness. Perfect for entertaining or a quick weeknight dinner, these tenders are easy to make and utterly craveable. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun twist. Try them tonight and make your next meal unforgettable!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup whiskey (bourbon works best)

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Salt to taste

Cooking oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, whiskey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight to soak up the flavors.

      Prepare the Breading Station:

        Set up a three-part breading station. In one shallow dish, add the flour seasoned with salt. In the second dish, keep the marinated chicken. In the third dish, mix panko breadcrumbs with crumbled bacon.

          Coat the Chicken:

            Take each chicken tender from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge it in the flour, then dip back into the marinade, and finally coat with the panko and bacon mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat for all tenders.

              Fry the Chicken Tenders:

                In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of cooking oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a bit of breadcrumbs in; if it sizzles, you're good to go. Fry the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

                  Glaze with BBQ Sauce:

                    Once all tenders are cooked, brush each piece generously with BBQ sauce. For an extra touch, you can return them to the skillet on low heat for a minute to caramelize the sauce slightly.

                      Serve:

                        Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy the crispy, smoky, and savory goodness!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 2 hours (plus marinating) | 4 servings