The aroma of spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders wafts through my kitchen, instantly transforming the space into a cozy gathering spot. These tenders are not just easy to make, but they’re also a healthier baked alternative to the classic fried variety that we all love. Coated in a tantalizing buffalo sauce, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—ideal for game days or a quick dinner when you’re craving something comforting yet flavorful. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a go-to weeknight meal that even the busiest of schedules can accommodate. Pair them with creamy ranch dressing or a sprinkle of celery for that classic touch. Ready to satisfy your spice craving? Let’s get cooking!
Why Are These Chicken Tenders So Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Each tender is baked to a golden brown, delivering a satisfying crunch.
Flavor Explosion: Coated in zesty buffalo sauce, they strike the perfect balance between heat and flavor—every bite will have you coming back for more.
Healthier Option: Unlike traditional fried wings, these baked tenders are lower in calories but packed with protein, making them guilt-free comfort food.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Versatile Serving: Elevate your meal by pairing them with creamy ranch alongside fresh vegetables for a well-rounded dish.
Crowd Favorite: Whether for game day or a casual dinner, these tenders are a guaranteed hit with family and friends, making them a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenders – The star of the dish; opt for boneless, skinless for easy preparation.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps the egg wash stick; gluten-free flour works perfectly for a gluten-free diet.
• Bread Crumbs – Adds a delightful crunch; choose panko for extra texture or seasoned for more flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses the tenders with a rich aroma; fresh garlic is a great replacement but use sparingly.
• Paprika – Provides a lovely warmth and deep color; smoked paprika can enhance flavor if desired.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.
For the Binding
• Egg – Binds the coating; swap for a flax egg to make it vegan-friendly.
• Milk – Improves the egg wash consistency; feel free to use any milk alternative.
For the Sauce
• Buffalo Wing Sauce – Delivers that signature spicy kick; select your favorite brand or try homemade for a personal touch.
These Buffalo Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also an easy-to-make addition that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your spicy baked buffalo chicken tenders will cook evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Coat Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, take your boneless skinless chicken tenders and add enough all-purpose flour to coat them thoroughly. Toss the chicken until it’s evenly coated, ensuring there are no dry spots. This initial layer will help the egg wash stick nicely to your chicken.
Step 3: Prepare Breading Setup
Set up your breading station by placing two bowls side by side. In the first bowl, whisk together one egg and a splash of milk until smooth, creating your egg wash. In the second bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to form a zesty coating for your tenders.
Step 4: Bread Chicken
Take each coated chicken tender and dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Place the breaded chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through cooking, flip each tender to achieve an even golden color. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach a beautiful golden-brown color and an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Sauce Up
Once the spicy baked buffalo chicken tenders are out of the oven, brush them generously with buffalo wing sauce while they’re still warm. Ensure each tender is nicely coated, adding a tantalizing layer of flavor that enhances their already delicious taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can coat the chicken and set them on the baking sheet up to 24 hours in advance, covering them with plastic wrap and refrigerating to maintain freshness. The breading mixture can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container, making the final cooking process a breeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the fridge, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This way, you’ll have delicious, crispy tenders ready for busy weeknights with minimal effort, just as flavorful as if you made them on the spot!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their texture and flavor so you can enjoy them again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid using the microwave to keep them from becoming soggy.
Make-Ahead: You can also prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time by breading them and keeping them in the refrigerator until ready to bake for a quick and easy meal.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Pat Dry: Ensure chicken tenders are patted dry before coating. This helps the flour adhere better for a crispier bite.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Even Cooking: Flip the tenders halfway through baking to promote even browning and an irresistible crunchy texture.
- Adjust Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, use less buffalo sauce or switch to a milder BBQ sauce for delicious results.
- Serve Fresh: These chicken tenders are best enjoyed hot out of the oven, paired with ranch dipping sauce for the ultimate experience.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can coat the chicken in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake when you’re ready for that fresh, crispy goodness!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Nothing pairs better with these spicy delights than delicious sides that complement their flavor and crunch!
- Creamy Ranch Dip: This classic choice provides a cooling contrast to the spiciness, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Fresh Celery Sticks: Their crisp texture and mild flavor balance the heat of the tenders. Plus, they add a refreshing crunch!
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries creates a delightful contrast that perfectly matches the spicy tenders, making for a fun mix.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a tangy freshness that beautifully cuts through the richness of the chicken, enhancing every bite.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery side with its irresistible aroma can be the perfect complement to your tenders’ zesty flavor.
- Crisp Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can help brighten your meal, offering a refreshing crunch to your plate.
- Beer or Cider: An ice-cold beer or fruity cider creates a wonderful balance to the spicy tenders, perfect for game day gatherings.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, the rich creaminess will delight your guests, leaving them satisfied and happy after this indulgent meal.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Your Customization Dream
Feel free to let your creativity flow and make these chicken tenders your own!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty bites.
- Air Fryer: Cooking in an air fryer? Use 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes for an even crispier finish.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets, and use a flax egg and non-dairy milk for a delicious vegan twist!
- Extra Crunch: Mix crushed cornflakes with your breadcrumbs for an unbeatable crunch and a delightful texture difference.
- Cheesy Coating: Add shredded cheese to your breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy layer that melds beautifully with the buffalo sauce!
- Spicy Fusion: Incorporate spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder for an extra kick, while keeping a nice balance of flavor.
- Sauce Varieties: Instead of standard buffalo sauce, experiment with chipotle or sriracha for a smoky or flavorful alternative.
- Sweet Twist: Mix honey or maple syrup with the buffalo sauce for a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the spice.
With these variations, you can transform the Buffalo Chicken Tenders into an entirely new experience! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider serving them alongside a refreshing blue cheese dressing for that classic Buffalo pairing. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken tenders. They are easy to cook and provide the right texture you desire for these Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Alternatively, you can use chicken breast cut into strips, which works just as well!
How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Store any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy a delicious snack even after the initial meal!
Can I freeze the Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Very! To freeze them, let the cooked tenders cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They’ll be good for up to 2 months!
What’s the best way to reheat Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
To reheat, I recommend placing the tenders on a baking sheet and warming them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to restore their crispiness, making them taste freshly baked again.
Can I adjust the spice level of the buffalo sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less buffalo sauce than called for, or substitute it with a BBQ sauce instead. For an extra kick, adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture will give you that added heat!
Are these Buffalo Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Yes! To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you can enjoy all the crispy goodness while adhering to gluten-free dietary requirements.
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders Your New Favorite Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Coat the chicken tenders with all-purpose flour thoroughly.
- Set up a breading station with egg wash and breadcrumb mixture.
- Dip each chicken tender in the egg wash, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Brush with buffalo wing sauce while warm before serving.