If you are craving that perfect combination of spicy heat and crispy comfort, this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender strips of chicken are coated in a seasoned breading that bakes up golden and crunchy, then dipped in a rich, buttery buffalo sauce that brings the ideal kick of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a satisfying snack, these tenders hit the spot with every bite. They are simple to make yet packed with bold, mouthwatering taste that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly to create something truly special. Each one adds essential flavor, texture, or color to make the dish shine.
- 1 pound chicken tenders: The star of the dish, these provide tender, juicy meat that cooks quickly and evenly.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick and creates a light crust when baked.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the flavors throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and warmth to the seasoning mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory depth that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky flavor and beautiful color to the coating.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue to hold the crispy breadcrumb coating firmly on each tender.
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko: For the crucial crunch; panko gives a lighter, crispier texture if you want an extra crunch.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce: The soul of the dish—spicy, tangy, and buttery, this sauce brings that iconic buffalo flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Melts into the sauce to add richness and smooth heat.
- Cooking spray or oil for baking: Ensures the tenders brown nicely without sticking to the pan.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken and Coatings
Start by mixing your dry ingredients—flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika—in a shallow dish. This seasoning blend infuses each tender with layers of flavor before it even hits the oven. Next, beat your eggs in a separate bowl and place the breadcrumbs (or panko if you want extra crispiness) in a third. Setting up your coating station this way helps streamline the dipping process and keeps things neat.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour mixture, tapping off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumbs to create a nice even crust. This three-step process is what guarantees that irresistible crunch paired with juicy chicken inside.
Step 3: Bake the Tenders
Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded tenders evenly on the sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray to encourage browning. Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes, turning the tenders halfway through so they cook evenly and develop that gorgeous golden color.
Step 4: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
While your tenders are baking, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. When the chicken comes out hot from the oven, toss each piece gently in the sauce until fully coated. This final step transforms crispy chicken into the bold, tangy buffalo tenders that everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe, fresh garnishes make all the difference. Crisp celery sticks add a refreshing crunch and help cool down the heat. A sprinkle of chopped green onions or finely chopped parsley adds brightness and a pop of color that’s irresistible. And of course, don’t forget a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing to cut through the spice and add creaminess.
Side Dishes
This recipe plays well with a variety of sides. Classic French fries or sweet potato fries create a delightful salty contrast. A simple salad with a cool vinaigrette keeps the meal light and fresh. For a heartier option, mac and cheese or roasted vegetables round out the plate for a crowd-pleasing dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For game day or casual parties, serve your buffalo chicken tenders with mini skewers to make them perfect finger foods. You can also arrange them on a big platter surrounded by colorful veggies and multiple dipping sauces for a fun buffet-style spread. For a fun twist, turn them into sliders with soft buns and crunchy slaw for an unexpected Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe variation everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover buffalo chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish again without missing a beat.
Freezing
If you want to save some tenders for a later craving, you can freeze them. Lay the cooked and cooled tenders on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and keeps them crisp when reheated. Frozen tenders stay best for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe leftovers, reheat them in a hot oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. You want to keep that signature crispness paired with juicy chicken inside.
FAQs
Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Many stores offer gluten-free panko or seasoned crumbs that work beautifully while keeping the texture crunchy.
What if I don’t have buffalo wing sauce?
No worries! You can mix hot sauce with melted butter in roughly a 2:1 ratio to create your own buffalo-style sauce. Adjust the hot sauce based on how spicy you like it—it’s a simple and effective substitute.
Is air frying a good method for this recipe?
Yes, air frying is a fantastic option. Cook the coated tenders at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method delivers crispy results with less oil and less hassle.
Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?
You can, but it’s best to slice the breasts into strips about the same size as tenders to ensure even cooking. Larger pieces might need more baking time and won’t be as uniform in texture.
How spicy are these buffalo chicken tenders?
They have a moderate heat level thanks to the buffalo wing sauce, balancing spicy and buttery flavors. You can always adjust the amount of sauce or add a milder version if you prefer less heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe that you just can’t beat. They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfectly spicy — a winning combination for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these tenders bring joy to every bite. Give this recipe a try and watch it become one of your all-time favorites to whip up again and again.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a tangy buffalo wing sauce, making them the perfect game day snack or a spicy main course. Baked to golden perfection with a seasoned breadcrumb coating, they offer a healthier twist on classic fried chicken tenders without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
Sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Other
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients for coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create a seasoned flour mixture.
- Set up dredging stations: Place the beaten eggs in a second shallow bowl. In a third bowl, add the seasoned breadcrumbs or panko.
- Coat chicken tenders: Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat completely with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake the tenders: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Prepare buffalo sauce: While the tenders bake, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and melted unsalted butter in a small bowl until fully combined.
- Toss tenders in sauce: Once the tenders are hot out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl and toss gently but thoroughly with the buffalo sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately: Serve the buffalo chicken tenders right away, optionally with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular seasoned breadcrumbs.
- These tenders can also be cooked in an air fryer at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with classic sides such as celery sticks and either ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the spice.
