Gulfside Ember Tenders

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Gulf Coast with our Gulfside Ember Tenders. This dish combines the essence of the region with a perfect blend of spices, creating a savory delight that speaks to the heart of Southern cooking. The Gulf Coast is known for its rich culinary traditions, and these tenders capture that essence in every bite.

History and Inspiration

The Gulf Coast is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects the diversity and richness of its history. From Cajun and Creole influences to the fresh catch from the sea, Gulfside Ember Tenders draw inspiration from the coastal flavors that have been passed down through generations. The dish is named after the vibrant colors and intense heat of the Gulf sunsets, infusing a bit of fire into your culinary experience.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast - 4 pieces, boneless and skinless
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Paprika - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic powder - 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder - 1 teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Buttermilk - 1 cup
• Panko breadcrumbs - 2 cups
• Parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Lemon - 1, cut into wedges

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breast into tender-sized strips.
2. In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips into the bowl, ensuring they're well-coated with the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Preparing the Breading

1. In a shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with parsley.

Cooking Process

The method by which we transform these flavors into a culinary masterpiece involves careful timing and just the right amount of heat. For best results, set a cooking timer during each phase of the process.

Coating the Chicken

1. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
2. Take each piece out of the buttermilk mixture and press it into the panko breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes. Adjust your cooking timer accordingly to not burn the bread crumbs.
3. Once the chicken is golden brown and cooked throughout, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Enjoying Gulfside Ember Tenders

These spicy tenders are best enjoyed immediately to savor the crispy exterior and juicy interior right off the pan.

• Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top before serving for an extra punch of flavor.
• Pair the tenders with a side of coleslaw, or enjoy them as an appetizer with a tangy dipping sauce.
• For a full Gulf experience, consider serving alongside warm cornbread or a fresh green salad.

The Gulfside Ember Tenders mirror the diverse and flavorful journey of Gulf Coast cuisine. Embrace the heat and flavors, and each bite takes you closer to the heart of the Southern coast.