Buffalo Chicken Tenders

These amazing Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and easy dish perfect for game nights, parties, or a satisfying dinner. They offer a crispy texture with a spicy kick, making them a favorite among chicken lovers. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These Buffalo Chicken Tenders can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of buffalo wing sauce and seasoned bread crumbs creates a deliciously spicy and savory taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, with ranch dressing, or as part of a salad or sandwich.
• Healthier Choice: Baking instead of frying keeps these tenders lower in fat while still retaining that satisfying crunch.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these tenders, thanks to their crispy exterior and juicy chicken inside.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and efficient, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Buffalo Chicken Tenders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking spray or parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A must-have for even cooking; it allows the tenders to bake evenly without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily; having multiple bowls helps keep your workspace organized.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing egg wash and ensuring all ingredients blend well together.

Ingredients

These amazing Buffalo Chicken Tenders are full of flavor and easy to make. I started with flour, then egg wash, and bread crumbs. Once I baked them I brushed them with buffalo sauce and then dipped them in ranch.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken tenders

For the Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Wet Mixture

• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Sauce

• 1 1/2 cups buffalo wing sauce

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a bowl with flour. Mix until each piece is well coated.

Step 3: Prepare Egg Wash and Breading

Prepare two separate bowls:
1. In one bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
2. In another bowl, mix together bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg wash, then into the seasoned bread crumbs. Place each coated tender into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Bake the Tenders

Bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking until they are cooked through.

Step 5: Add Buffalo Sauce

When the chicken is done baking, brush each tender generously with buffalo wing sauce for that signature flavor.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Tenders

These Buffalo Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a casual dinner, these tenders can be paired with various sides and dips to enhance their flavor.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the tenders with a side of crispy fries for a classic meal.
• Pair them with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option.

In a Sandwich

• Use the tenders to create a delicious buffalo chicken sandwich. Add lettuce and tomatoes for extra crunch.
• Try them in a wrap with your favorite veggies and ranch dressing.

With Dips

• Enjoy the tenders with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
• Blue cheese dressing also complements the spicy flavor of the tenders perfectly.

On Game Day Platters

• Arrange the Buffalo Chicken Tenders on a platter with celery sticks and carrot sticks for crunch.
• Include assorted dips like avocado or hummus to cater to different tastes.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Tenders

To achieve mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Tenders, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create perfectly crispy and flavorful tenders every time.

• Choose quality chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken tends to yield better flavor and texture.
• Ensure proper coating: Coat each tender well in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs for an even crust.
• Bake at the right temperature: Baking at 400 degrees F ensures crispy outsides while keeping the inside juicy.
• Flip halfway through: Turning the tenders during baking promotes even cooking and browning.
• Brush sauce after baking: Applying buffalo sauce post-bake enhances flavor without making them soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Pairing side dishes with your Buffalo Chicken Tenders can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their spicy goodness.

1. Crispy French Fries: Golden fries are always a hit and perfect for dipping in sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the heat from the tenders.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and pairs well with spicy flavors.
4. Macaroni Salad: A cool pasta salad provides contrast to the hot chicken tenders.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color, nutrition, and complement the dish nicely.
6. Potato Wedges: These seasoned wedges offer an alternative to fries with added crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Buffalo Chicken Tenders can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the coating: Not properly coating the chicken with flour and breadcrumbs can lead to soggy tenders. Ensure each piece is well-coated for a crispy texture.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many chicken pieces on one baking sheet can cause uneven cooking. Give each tender space to cook evenly.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in undercooked tenders. Always preheat before putting your dish in.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may leave chicken undercooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Using stale bread crumbs: Using old or stale bread crumbs can affect flavor and texture. Always use fresh breadcrumbs for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the tenders to cool completely before sealing them.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Tenders

• Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place tenders on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warmed, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add tenders and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Buffalo Chicken Tenders?

Buffalo Chicken Tenders are breaded and baked chicken strips coated in spicy buffalo sauce, making them a flavorful appetizer or snack.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and coat the chicken ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator before baking when you’re ready.

How do I make Buffalo Chicken Tenders spicier?

To increase spiciness, add more buffalo wing sauce or incorporate cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture.

Are there any substitutes for buffalo wing sauce?

You can create your own sauce using hot sauce mixed with melted butter or use BBQ sauce for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different sauces or serve them alongside various dips. Whether as an appetizer or main dish, these tenders are sure to impress everyone at your table. Try making them today!