Picture this: the vibrant scent of spicy buffalo sauce mingling with the comforting aroma of fried chicken fills your kitchen, instantly lifting your spirits after a long day. That’s exactly the kind of happiness you can create with my Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Tender chicken breasts, marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated to perfection, transform into a crunchy delight that’s destined to impress anyone at your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can ditch the fast food routine and whip up a batch that rivals your favorite takeout. Ready to elevate your next meal and satisfy your craving for something deliciously homemade? Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a sense of warmth and joy to your dining experience!
Why will you love Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Irresistible crunch: These tenders sport a perfectly crispy exterior that contrasts delightfully with the juicy interior.
Flavor explosion: The zesty buffalo sauce will ignite your taste buds, making them perfect for anyone who loves a spicy kick!
Quick prep time: With a simple marinating and coating process, you’ll have homemade tenders ready in no time.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve them at gatherings, and watch as friends and family dive into these crispy bites with glee.
Versatile dish: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or even cut into nuggets for a fun twist!
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Ingredients
• Get ready to create something deliciously homemade!
For the Tenders
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless strips ensure an easy, tasty bite.
- Salt – Enhances flavor for every crispy bite.
- Pepper – Just the right touch of mild heat to elevate taste.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken while adding a creamy zing; substitute with regular milk if needed.
- Buffalo Sauce – This provides a bold, spicy flavor; adjust to your heat preference for your ideal buffalo chicken tenders.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a solid base for the crispy coating, no direct substitutes unless gluten-free.
- Cornstarch – Keeps the coating super crispy; use flour for a less crunchy result.
- Kosher Salt – Adds essential flavor to the coating for that mouthwatering experience.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Delivers extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs work, but the texture will change.
- Eggs – Act as a binder for that perfect coating adhesion; no substitutes for best results.
- Water – Helps thin the egg mixture for even coating.
For Frying
- Oil – Vegetable or canola oil brings the perfect heat for frying to a golden crisp.
Now you’re all set to whip up these delightful Buffalo Chicken Tenders that will surely have your taste buds dancing!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders
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Prepare Marinade: Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then immerse them in a mixture of buttermilk and buffalo sauce. Marinate for at least 3 hours, or up to 48 hours for maximum flavor.
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Prepare Coatings: In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. In a second bowl, beat the eggs with water. Then, in a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with 2 cups of the flour mixture for extra crunch.
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Dredge Chicken: Take the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. First, dredge it in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat it with panko. Place coated strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Heat Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil to 350°F. This is crucial for achieving that crispy texture everyone loves!
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Fry Chicken: Carefully place the chicken in batches of 3-4 pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F.
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Coat with Sauce: Once fried, remove the chicken from oil and let it drain. Toss the hot tenders in additional buffalo sauce for a flavor boost.
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Serve: Arrange the crispy tenders on a plate, and serve with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy the explosion of flavor!
Optional: Serve with celery sticks for a refreshing crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Create the perfect dining experience with sides and drinks that complement the kick of spice from these crispy delights.
- Celery Sticks: A classic pairing that adds a refreshing crunch and cools the palate between bites of spicy chicken.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: Rich and creamy, this dressing not only complements the tenders but enhances the buffalo flavor with every dip.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries coated in garlic and Parmesan provide a savory twist that balances the heat beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy slaw offers a delightful contrast in texture and freshness, making each bite feel balanced and satisfying.
For a fun meal, serve the tenders with a side of your favorite dipping sauces.
You can also add a light cucumber salad for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your plate.
- Craft Beer: A hoppy craft beer pairs perfectly with these tenders, cutting through the spice and enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast to the savory tenders.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create your own spin on these delicious tenders!
- Cauliflower Swap: Substitute chicken with cauliflower florets for a delightful vegetarian twist that’s still packed with flavor.
- Air-Fried Version: Use an air fryer to achieve that necessary crunch while reducing oil for a healthier alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an added layer of heat that spicy lovers will adore.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley or oregano into the breadcrumb coating for a burst of freshness.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese in the panko mixture for an extra savory touch that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce.
- Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the buttermilk marinade for a bright, zesty flavor that beautifully complements the buffalo sauce.
- Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a bit of honey with the buffalo sauce before tossing your tenders for a sweet contrast to the heat.
- Crispy Oven-Baked: For a lighter option, bake the coated tenders at 400°F on a wire rack for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispy finish without frying.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and buffalo sauce up to 48 hours in advance, ensuring a deeply infused flavor that locks in moisture. For easier cooking day, mix your dry coating ingredients (flour, cornstarch, salt, and panko breadcrumbs) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the ready-made coatings, fry them as directed, and toss them in buffalo sauce right before serving. This way, your tenders will be just as delicious as if made fresh, saving you time on busy weeknights while still delivering that satisfying crunch!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Tenders
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Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor penetrates. Aim for at least 12 hours for the best buffalo chicken tenders.
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Don’t Skip the Panko: Using panko breadcrumbs is key to achieving that extra-crispy coating. If you use regular breadcrumbs, adjust your expectations for texture.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Always use a thermometer to check the oil’s temperature. If it’s too low, your tenders will absorb oil and get greasy; too high, and they may burn.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy tenders. Stick to small batches for the crispiest results.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring your buffalo chicken tenders are cooked through and deliciously safe.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Room Temperature: Buffalo Chicken Tenders can be left out for up to 2 hours after cooking, but it’s best to refrigerate leftovers promptly to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftover tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness, making your Buffalo Chicken Tenders almost as good as fresh!
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the preferred choice for these tenders. They provide that juicy interior while being easy to cut into strips. If you’re looking for a quicker option, boneless thighs can also work, delivering a richer flavor.
How long can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Perfect question! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy. Simply pop them in at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! To freeze your Buffalo Chicken Tenders, allow them to cool completely after frying. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if the coating isn’t crispy?
Very! If the coating turns out soggy, it may be due to a couple of factors. Ensure your oil is at the right temperature — too low will lead to soggy tenders. Also, avoid overcrowding the frying pot. Fry in small batches to ensure that each piece has enough space to crisp up nicely.
Are these Buffalo Chicken Tenders safe for pets?
Great question! While cooked chicken itself can be a treat for pets, the buffalo sauce contains spices that may not sit well with their stomachs. It’s best to keep these spicy tenders away from pets and opt for plain cooked chicken as a safer alternative.
What if I can’t find buttermilk?
No worries! If you can’t find buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute. Simply combine 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will help tenderize your chicken just like traditional buttermilk!
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders You’ll Crave Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then immerse them in a mixture of buttermilk and buffalo sauce. Marinate for at least 3 hours, or up to 48 hours.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. In a second bowl, beat the eggs with water. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with 2 cups of the flour mixture.
- Take the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge it in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and coat with panko. Place on a baking sheet.
- Heat oil to 350°F in a deep pot.
- Carefully fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and let it drain, then toss with additional buffalo sauce.
- Serve on a plate with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing.