Buffalo chicken tenders are a delightful blend of crispy texture, juicy meat, and a tangy, spicy kick that makes them a favorite for many. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, hosting a game night, or simply craving a flavorful snack, these tenders are sure to satisfy. Paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing, they offer a perfect balance of heat and creaminess that’s utterly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Crispy Exterior, Juicy Interior
The perfect balance of frying and baking ensures a golden, crunchy coating that encases tender, juicy chicken. Each bite delivers a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Bold, Tangy Flavor
The combination of Buffalo sauce and melted butter creates a rich, tangy flavor with just the right amount of heat. It’s a classic taste that never fails to impress.
Versatile and Easy to Serve
These tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them as appetizers, main dishes, or even incorporate them into sandwiches and wraps. They’re perfect for any occasion and easy to tailor to your taste.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenderloins
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Choose tenderloins for a tender and juicy result. Alternatively, use chicken breasts sliced into strips.
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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Creates a sturdy base for the crispy coating.
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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Helps achieve an extra-crispy exterior.
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2 large eggs
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Acts as a binder for the breading.
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1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
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Adds the signature Buffalo heat.
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Enhances the savory flavor.
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Adds depth to the seasoning.
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Gives a subtle smoky flavor.
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Breading:
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
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Provides a light and airy crunch.
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Olive oil spray
- Ensures even browning during baking.
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
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The base for your Buffalo flavor.
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1/4 cup unsalted butter
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Adds richness and smoothness.
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For Serving:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Perfect for dipping and balancing the heat.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This setup ensures even cooking and keeps the tenders crispy.
2. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season them generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This forms a flavorful base for the breading.
3. Prepare the Breading Stations
Set up three shallow dishes:
– Flour Mixture: Combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
– Egg Mixture: Beat the eggs with 1/2 cup of Frank’s RedHot Sauce.
– Panko Breadcrumbs: Place panko breadcrumbs in a separate dish.
4. Bread the Chicken Tenders
Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully covered. Finally, roll them in panko breadcrumbs until well-coated.
5. Arrange and Spray
Place the breaded tenders on the prepared wire rack. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray. This helps achieve a golden, crispy coating when baked.
6. Bake the Tenders
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the tenders are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of Frank’s RedHot Sauce and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
8. Toss the Tenders in Sauce
Once the chicken tenders are baked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the prepared Buffalo sauce over the tenders and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Buffalo chicken tenders immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. They pair wonderfully with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a classic touch.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Marinate for Extra Flavor
For deeper flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken in buttermilk mixed with 1/2 cup of Buffalo sauce for at least 1 hour before breading.
Ensure Even Breading
Fully coat the chicken tenders in each breading station to achieve an evenly crisp exterior. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to help them adhere.
Rest Before Cooking
After breading, let the chicken tenders rest on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes. This allows the breading to set, preventing it from falling off during cooking.
Use a Meat Thermometer
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Toss While Hot
For the best flavor, toss the tenders in the Buffalo sauce immediately after removing them from the oven. This helps the sauce adhere better and enhances the overall taste.
Air Fryer Option
For a healthier twist, use an air fryer. Bread the tenders, lightly spray them with olive oil, and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Experiment with Sauces
While Buffalo sauce is classic, try other sauces like BBQ, honey mustard, or sweet chili for different flavor profiles. You can also mix herbs and spices into the breadcrumbs for added taste.
Creative Serving Ideas
Beyond dipping sauces, incorporate your tenders into wraps, sandwiches, or salads. They’re also a hit as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
How to Store
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze uncoated chicken tenders on a baking sheet for 2-4 hours. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- From Frozen: Bake frozen tenders at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes until heated through and crispy. Then toss with fresh Buffalo sauce.
- From Refrigerated: Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes or in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
More Spicy Buffalo Recipes You Have to Try
- Buffalo Chicken Wings
- Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pizza
- Buffalo Chicken Salad
- Buffalo Ranch Sliders
Enjoy cooking these delicious Buffalo chicken tenders! They’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare for family and friends.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Buffalo chicken tenders are crispy on the outside. They are juicy on the inside. They are coated in a tangy Buffalo sauce. The sauce packs just the right amount of heat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Frank's RedHot sauce
- 3/4 cup Frank's Red Hot Sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with cooking spray. Set aside.
- Remove any visible fat or tendons from the chicken tenderloins. Pat the chicken dry. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare three bowls for the breading station. In the first bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. In the second bowl, beat the eggs and 2 tablespoons of hot sauce. Ensure the mixture is well combined. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour. Shake off any excess. Dip the chicken strip in the egg. Then, coat it with breadcrumbs. Press to adhere. Place on a plate. Repeat the process for the remaining chicken strips.
- Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. Then, flip and cook the other side. Add more oil as needed.
- Transfer the chicken to the wire rack on the baking sheet. Once all the chicken is crispy, place the tray in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Make the sauce. While the chicken is baking, warm the Buffalo sauce in a small saucepan. Add the butter and garlic powder. Heat until smooth.
- As soon as the chicken tenders come out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the hot sauce over the top. Toss gently until they are well-coated.
- Serve the crispy Buffalo chicken tenders immediately. Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy!
