Pat chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder and paprika. For 4-piece portions use about 8–10 ounces; for 6-piece portions use 12–16 ounces and adjust seasoning proportionally.

Breading (Homestyle option)

Make the batter and dredge

In a shallow bowl whisk together buttermilk and egg until combined. In a separate wide bowl combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika. Dip each seasoned tender first into the buttermilk-egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then press into the flour mixture to fully coat. For extra crunch double-dip: return to the wet mix briefly then re-coat in flour. Place breaded tenders on a wire rack while oil heats.

Fry to golden

Pour oil into a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1 inch and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry breaded tenders in batches—do not overcrowd—about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to turn. Transfer to a wire rack set over a sheet pan and immediately sprinkle with a pinch of finishing salt.

Naked option (no breading)

Cook the naked tenders

If customer chooses ‘Naked’, brush each seasoned tender lightly with olive oil and a little lemon juice if using. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbs oil. Sear tenders 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and rest 2 minutes.

Tots (side)

Bake or air-fry tots

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Toss frozen tater tots in 1 tbs oil or spray lightly, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Bake 18–22 minutes, turning halfway, until crisp and golden. In an air fryer crisp for 12–16 minutes shaking once. Season with 1/4 tsp salt immediately after cooking.

Plating & Sauce

Assemble the order

For a 4‑ or 6‑piece order, place the cooked tenders on a plate or to-go container with a side portion of crispy tots. Serve the chosen sauce (ranch, honey mustard, barbecue or buffalo) in a small ramekin or cup on the side. For Homestyle tenders, garnish with a lemon wedge if desired.