Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Tenders

Enjoy the crunchy, golden goodness of Applebee’s Chicken Tenders with this easy copycat recipe made right in your own kitchen. Soaked in buttermilk, seasoned just right, and fried until perfectly crisp, these tenders are a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Bring the taste of your favorite restaurant home with this crispy and juicy Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Tenders recipe. These golden fried tenders are full of flavor and perfect for a family-friendly meal, game day snack, or weeknight dinner. Serve them with honey mustard, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

• Tastes just like Applebee’s, but made at home
• Crunchy coating with tender, juicy chicken inside
• Easy to prep ahead and freeze for quick meals
• Kid-approved and great for dipping
• Uses simple pantry ingredients

Applebee’s Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken tenders: Lean, tender strips perfect for crisp frying.
• Buttermilk (for soaking): Adds tangy flavor and tenderizes the chicken.
• All-purpose flour: Creates a crispy, golden brown coating.
• Cornstarch: Helps achieve extra crunch and light texture.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and seasoning balance.
• Paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky depth.
• Garlic powder: Brings savory, aromatic flavor to coating.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and rich flavor.
• Black pepper: Delivers mild heat and bold seasoning.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Kicks in heat for spicy lovers.

How To Make Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.

Step 2: After soaking the chicken in buttermilk, dredge each piece in the seasoned flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing to coat well.

Step 3: Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops with oil spray to help crisp them up.

Step 4: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again with oil if needed. Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Tenders Recipe Tips

• Marinate longer for extra flavor: Let the chicken soak in buttermilk overnight to make it even more tender and flavorful.
• Use a thermometer: Make sure the oil stays around 350°F and the chicken reaches 165°F inside for the perfect fry.
• Double-dip for extra crunch: For a thicker, crunchier coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and dredge a second time.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and avoid soggy tenders.
• Air fryer alternative: For a lighter version, follow the air fryer instructions—still crispy and delicious with less oil.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Place leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
• Freezing: Arrange cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat tenders in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

What To Serve With Applebee’s Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re wondering what to serve with these Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Tenders, classic sides like seasoned French fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings are always a hit. You can also lighten things up with coleslaw, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies, or go full comfort food with mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or baked beans for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Applebee’s Chicken Tenders Recipe Faqs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I bake or air fry these tenders instead of frying? Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

What dipping sauces go best with these chicken tenders? Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, and spicy mayo are popular choices.

More Copycat Applebee’s Recipes

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Applebee’s Onion Rings Copycat Recipe

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Instant Pot Copycat Applebees French Onion Soup

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Crispy Applebee’s Copycat Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Copycat Applebee’s Butter Pecan Blondies

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