Save Pin This playful take on fried chicken features ultra-crispy tenders with a subtle sweet-savory twist from using soda in the batter. Paired with a bold dipping sauce these are a true crowd-pleaser for game nights kids” parties or anytime you crave something comforting yet unexpected.
I first made these for a backyard picnic and let everyone guess the secret ingredient. Let”s just say the whole plate vanished before I could blink.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken tenders or breast strips: Choose fresh pieces for best tenderness
- All-purpose flour: This builds a crispy crunch on the outside
- Cornstarch: Helps the coating become even crispier
- Baking powder: Supports the airy bubbly crust
- Cola or lemon-lime soda: The fizz lightens the batter and adds a fun sweetness Choose a soda you enjoy drinking
- Egg: Binds the coating and keeps tenders juicy
- Salt and black pepper: For balanced seasoning
- Paprika: A hint of warmth and color Use sweet or smoked depending on your taste
- Garlic powder or granulated garlic: Lends depth and savory notes
- Vegetable oil: For frying opt for one with a high smoke point like peanut or canola
- For the Sweet Dipping Sauce
- Mayonnaise: Creamy base
- Honey or brown sugar: The touch of sweetness that matches the tenders
- Dijon or yellow mustard: For zip and balance
- Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar: Brightens up the sweetness
- Pinch of salt
- A small dash of cayenne or hot sauce: Only if you like a little heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat each tender dry with paper towels to help the batter stick and absorb less oil
- Mix Dry Coating:
- In a wide bowl combine flour cornstarch baking powder salt pepper paprika and garlic powder Stir well so every tender gets evenly seasoned
- Make the Batter:
- In a separate mixing bowl whisk egg with soda until frothy and bubbly This will give your tenders that signature light crust
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dip each tender first in the wet batter letting excess drip off Then dredge in the dry coating pressing lightly so the mix adheres all over
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour about two inches of oil into a deep pan Heat on medium until a small drop of batter sizzles immediately but does not burn around 350 degrees Fahrenheit
- Fry the Tenders:
- Working in batches add coated chicken to hot oil Fry undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes per batch turning once They are ready when deeply golden and cooked through Transfer to a rack or paper towels
- Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise honey or brown sugar mustard lemon juice salt and cayenne Adjust the sweetness and tang to suit your taste
- Serve:
- Serve the tenders hot with dipping sauce on the side
Save Pin My kids always get involved in the battering step—sometimes half the fun is seeing whose coating turns out crunchiest. My own favorite moment was dipping a freshly fried piece straight into the sauce and marveling at the cola”s light tang in every bite.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Recrisp in a hot oven right on the rack so they stay crunchy For longer storage freeze after frying and reheat directly from frozen with a quick oven bake
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken thighs for a juicier option or plant-based strips for a meatless twist You can swap out the soda for ginger ale or root beer for a different flavor profile Plain Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise makes the sauce tangier and lighter
Serving Suggestions
Serve on a platter with plenty of toothpicks for parties Pair with waffle fries and corn on the cob for a diner-style meal These tenders also make a delicious wrap filling with lettuce and extra dipping sauce
Cultural and Historical Context
Sweet-savory fried chicken ideas date back to Southern US cooking traditions where unexpected flavor pairings delight the senses Carbonated batters are common in global street food as the bubbles create a lighter crispier finish This recipe is a playful nod to childhood soda floats and comfort food nostalgia
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a little finely grated lemon zest in spring for brightness Top salads with sliced tenders in the summer with extra sauce as your dressing In fall and winter try dunking in smoky barbecue sauce as a comforting treat
Save Pin Bring everyone together to try these crispy sweet-savory tenders With a homemade sauce and playful twist they”re sure to spice up your next gathering
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of soda is best for the batter?
Clear sodas like lemon-lime work well, lending a subtle sweetness and a light, crunchy texture.
- → Can I bake instead of fry the chicken tenders?
Yes, baking is possible. Arrange coated tenders on a sheet and bake at high heat until crispy.
- → How can I make the dipping sauce sweeter?
Increase sugar or honey in the sauce or add a splash of fruit juice for extra sweetness.
- → Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and check soda ingredients to ensure gluten-free preparation for the batter.
- → What sides pair well with soda float chicken tenders?
Serve with fries, coleslaw, salad, or fresh vegetables for a balanced meal and fresh crunch.
- → How do I store leftover chicken tenders?
Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat in an oven for best texture.