There’s something truly irresistible about the crispy, spicy goodness of this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe that makes it a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re gearing up for a game day party, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or simply craving the perfect mix of crunchy, tangy, and fiery, these tenders deliver every single time. Coated in a crunchy panko crust and tossed in a buttery, zesty buffalo sauce, they’re just the kind of dish that turns any meal into a celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple is key to the magic of this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe. Each component plays a role — from the seasoning in the flour ensuring every bite is flavorful, to the panko breadcrumbs lending that perfect crunch, and of course, the hot sauce and butter creating the iconic buffalo flavor that everyone loves.
- 1 pound chicken tenders: Tender, juicy chicken pieces that are easy to bread and cook evenly.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides a base layer for the breading to stick to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of spice to the coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the crust with a warm, savory depth.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a glue to hold the breadcrumbs firmly on the chicken.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Light and crispy crumbs that give these tenders their amazing crunch.
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot): The star ingredient that brings authentic buffalo heat and tang.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Mellow richness that smooths out the heat and adds a velvety texture.
- Cooking spray or oil: Essential for baking or frying to achieve that golden, crispy finish.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Breadings Station
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F if baking or heating oil in a skillet for frying. Then, set up three shallow bowls: one with the flour mixed with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs. This setup makes coating your chicken tenders a breeze and ensures a perfect, even crust.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender first into the seasoned flour, making sure it’s well coated. Next, dunk it into the eggs to help the breadcrumbs stick, and finally press it gently into the panko breadcrumbs. This triple-layer breading is what gives the tenders their signature crunch and flavor balance.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders
If you’re baking, place the tenders on a greased baking sheet or better yet, a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep them crispy. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. For frying, cook each tender in hot oil for about 3-4 minutes per side until gorgeously golden and crispy. Either way, the result is a perfectly cooked, juicy tender inside a crisp coating.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce and Toss
While the tenders cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan and stir in the hot sauce. Once the tenders are cooked through, toss them in the buffalo sauce until they’re fully coated in that rich, spicy glaze. This step elevates the Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe from simple to spectacular with that unmistakable buffalo flavor.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your buffalo chicken tenders adds freshness and a pop of color that’s hard to resist. Try chopped fresh parsley, sliced green onions, or even a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese for an extra layer of tangy creaminess that complements the heat beautifully.
Side Dishes
Buffalo chicken tenders pair wonderfully with cool, crunchy sides like celery sticks and carrot sticks, which perfectly balance out the spice. Creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing is a must for dipping. You can also serve them alongside crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even creamy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe to the next level by serving them in a bread bowl with melted cheese, offering sliders with crisp lettuce and pickles, or arranging them on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces. These ideas make sharing with friends and family even more fun and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover buffalo chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them separate from any dipping sauces to maintain optimal crispness and flavor when reheated.
Freezing
If you want to make this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe in advance, freeze the cooked tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and are super convenient for quick meals later.
Reheating
For the crispiest reheated tenders, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and lose that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips that mimic the size of tenders to ensure even cooking and that perfect balance of crispy coating to juicy meat.
Is it possible to make this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Can I adjust the spice level in the buffalo sauce?
Definitely. If you prefer milder tenders, reduce the hot sauce or mix it with some extra melted butter. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter sauce.
What’s the best dipping sauce for buffalo tenders?
Ranch and blue cheese dressings are classic accompaniments that complement the heat nicely, but feel free to experiment with creamy garlic sauce or even a honey mustard dip for something different.
Are these tenders better baked or fried?
Both methods are fantastic. Baking is healthier and still yields great crispness, especially with a wire rack, while frying offers the classic, ultra-crispy texture. Choose what works best for your preferences and kitchen setup.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a reliably delicious, finger-licking good recipe that never fails to impress, this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe has got you covered. With its straightforward ingredients, accessible steps, and that iconic buffalo sauce flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again. So grab your apron, get cooking, and prepare to wow yourself and anyone lucky enough to taste these crispy, spicy delights.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy and flavorful Buffalo Chicken Tenders coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, perfect as a game day snack or appetizer. These tenders can be baked or fried to your preference, served hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Sauce
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Additional
- Cooking spray or oil for baking or frying
Instructions
- Prepare Oven or Oil: Preheat the oven to 400°F if baking, or heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat if frying.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the Tenders: For baking, place tenders on a greased baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. For frying, cook tenders in hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat and stir in the hot sauce until smooth and combined.
- Toss Tenders in Sauce: Once cooked, toss the tenders in the buffalo sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Serve the buffalo chicken tenders hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Notes
- For extra crispy baked tenders, place them on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.
- You can make these ahead and reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce for more or less heat according to your preference.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version.
