Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Remove chicken tenders from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour. Place breaded tenders on a wire rack.
Cook the Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer Method)
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Cook in batches if necessary.
Make the Carolina Gold Slaw
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add coleslaw mix and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Prepare the Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, whisking frequently. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside. (If using store-bought, skip this step).
Assemble the Sandwiches
- While chicken is cooking, lightly toast hot dog buns. This can be done in a dry pan, toaster, or under a broiler.
- Place 2-3 cooked chicken tenders (depending on size) into each toasted hot dog bun.
- Top generously with Carolina Gold Slaw.
- Drizzle with Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce. Add pickle slices if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy chicken, ensure tenders are in a single layer and not overcrowded during cooking. If deep frying, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 4-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. The slaw can be made up to a day in advance for deeper flavor; store refrigerated. Any leftover Carolina Gold BBQ sauce is excellent with pulled pork or grilled chicken.
