Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crispy chicken tender, its tender meat bursting with tangy and spicy flavors. It’s like a symphony of taste, a dance between the fiery buffalo sauce and the savory chicken.

Well, my friend, I’ve got just the recipe for you. In this discussion, we will walk you through the steps of creating these delectable buffalo chicken tenders, from the ingredients you’ll need to the techniques that ensure a crispy breading.

But that’s not all – we’ll also share our secrets for making a mouthwatering spicy buffalo sauce that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.

So grab a seat and get ready to elevate your chicken tender game to new heights.

Key Takeaways

• Chicken tenders can be cooked either by baking or frying, each method offering its own advantages and flavor options.
• To achieve a crispy breading, pat the chicken tenders dry, dip them in beaten egg mixture, and let them rest on a wire rack before cooking.
• The spicy buffalo sauce can be made by combining hot sauce, melted butter, white vinegar, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
• When serving buffalo chicken tenders, pay attention to plating and presentation, and consider pairing them with a variety of dipping sauces and sides for a complete and personalized dining experience.

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

To make delicious Buffalo chicken tenders, gather all of the necessary ingredients for this mouthwatering dish.

Start with 1 pound of chicken tenders, which can be easily found at your local grocery store.

Next, you’ll need 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. These seasonings will add a burst of flavor to the chicken.

For the signature Buffalo sauce, you’ll need 1/2 cup of hot sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot, and 1/4 cup of melted butter. This combination will give your chicken tenders that tangy and spicy kick.

Don’t forget the cooking oil for frying! Vegetable oil or canola oil works perfectly.

As for the alternative dipping sauces, try experimenting with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. These options will add a unique twist to your Buffalo chicken tenders.

Now that you have all of the ingredients ready, it’s time to move on to the next step and dive into the cooking methods.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have gathered all of the necessary ingredients for your mouthwatering Buffalo chicken tenders, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step instructions on how to make this delicious dish. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more!

First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your chicken tenders cook evenly and become crispy on the outside. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Next, take your marinated chicken tenders out of the fridge and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each tender to allow for even cooking. If you prefer, you can also use an air fryer or stovetop skillet for alternative cooking methods. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cooking method you choose.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook the chicken tenders for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides.

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle and the tenders to become even more tender and juicy.

Now, it’s time to dig in! Serve your Buffalo chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese. Enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness of these delectable treats. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken tenders, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Tips for Crispy Breading

For irresistibly crispy breading on your Buffalo chicken tenders, follow these helpful tips.

• Coating Technique

• Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the breading adhere better.

• Dip each tender into a beaten egg mixture before coating it with breadcrumbs. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.

• Preventing Breading from Falling Off

• Let the coated chicken tenders rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before frying or baking. This allows the breading to set and adhere to the chicken, reducing the chances of it falling off during cooking.

• Avoid overcrowding the frying pan or baking sheet. Leave enough space between the tenders to allow air circulation, which helps the breading crisp up evenly and stay intact.

• Alternative Breading Options

• Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter and crunchier texture.

• For a gluten-free option, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free crackers. These alternatives provide a similar crispy coating without the gluten.

Making the Spicy Buffalo Sauce

After achieving the perfect crispy breading on your Buffalo chicken tenders, it’s time to turn up the heat and create a mouthwatering spicy Buffalo sauce. This sauce is what takes the tenders from ordinary to extraordinary, adding that signature tangy and spicy flavor that we all know and love. Making buffalo sauce is simple and can be customized to your preferred level of heat. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients	Instructions
1/2 cup hot sauce	In a small saucepan, heat the hot sauce over low heat until warmed.
1/4 cup unsalted butter	Add the butter to the saucepan and stir until melted and well combined with the hot sauce.
1 tablespoon white vinegar	Stir in the vinegar to add a tangy kick to the sauce.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder	Sprinkle in the garlic powder for an added depth of flavor.
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce	Finish off the sauce with a splash of Worcestershire sauce for richness.

Feel free to experiment with different variations of buffalo sauce by adding ingredients like honey for sweetness, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. The beauty of making buffalo sauce is that you have the freedom to customize it to your taste preferences. Once you’ve made your sauce, simply toss your crispy chicken tenders in the sauce until they are well coated. Serve with celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for the ultimate Buffalo chicken tender experience. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the freedom to make this delicious sauce your own.

Baking or Frying the Chicken Tenders

Whether you prefer to bake or fry your chicken tenders, the cooking method you choose will determine the texture and taste of these delicious bites. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each method and explore different ways to season your chicken tenders.

Baking:

• Pros:

• Healthier option: Baking requires little to no oil, making it a healthier choice for those watching their calorie intake.

• Easy and convenient: Simply season your chicken tenders, pop them in the oven, and let them do their thing. No need to stand over a hot stove.

• Cons:

• Less crispy: Baked chicken tenders won’t have the same crispy texture as fried ones. However, you can achieve a crispy exterior by using breadcrumbs or panko.

• Longer cooking time: Baking takes longer than frying, so if you’re short on time, this mightn’t be the best option.

Frying:

• Pros:

• Crispy and golden: Frying gives chicken tenders that irresistible crispy and golden exterior that we all love.

• Quick cooking time: With frying, your chicken tenders will be ready in just a few minutes, perfect for when you’re in a hurry.

• Cons:

• Higher in calories: Frying requires oil, which adds extra calories to your chicken tenders.

• Messy and requires supervision: Frying can be messy, and you need to keep an eye on the chicken tenders to avoid burning.

When it comes to seasoning, you have endless options. You can go for a classic combination of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Or you can spice things up with cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist. Experiment with different herbs and spices until you find your perfect flavor profile.

Ultimately, whether you choose to bake or fry your chicken tenders, the most important thing is that you enjoy every bite. So go ahead, get creative, and savor the freedom of making them just the way you like!

Serving and Enjoying the Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Now that your delicious buffalo chicken tenders are baked or fried to perfection, it’s time to move on to the next step: serving and enjoying them.

Plating and presentation play a crucial role in making your dish visually appealing. Consider arranging the crispy tenders on a bed of fresh lettuce, garnishing with sliced green onions, and serving alongside a tangy blue cheese or creamy ranch dipping sauce.

Don’t forget to include some classic sides like celery sticks and carrot sticks for a complete and satisfying meal.

Plating and Presentation

To fully enjoy the delicious Buffalo Chicken Tenders, it’s important to pay attention to the art of plating and presentation. The way you present your food can significantly enhance your dining experience. Here are some plating techniques and garnishing ideas to make your Buffalo Chicken Tenders look as appetizing as they taste:

• Plating Techniques:

• Stack the chicken tenders on a bed of fresh lettuce for a vibrant and colorful presentation.

• Arrange the tenders in a fan shape to create an eye-catching display.

• Garnishing Ideas:

• Sprinkle chopped green onions or cilantro on top of the tenders for a touch of freshness.

• Drizzle a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing over the chicken tenders for added flavor and visual appeal.

Dipping Sauces and Sides

Enhance your Buffalo Chicken Tenders experience by pairing them with delicious dipping sauces and sides. These savory additions will take your taste buds on a flavor-filled journey. Whether you prefer tangy, sweet, or spicy, there are different types of dipping sauces that will satisfy your cravings. From classic ranch and blue cheese to zesty barbecue and honey mustard, the options are endless. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making your own homemade options? Whip up a creamy garlic aioli or a fiery jalapeno dip that will elevate your chicken tenders to new heights. Don’t forget about the sides! Crispy french fries, crunchy coleslaw, or a refreshing side salad will perfectly complement the tender and flavorful buffalo chicken. So go ahead, indulge in the freedom of creating your own delectable combination of dipping sauces and sides to accompany your buffalo chicken tenders.

Dipping Sauces	Ingredients	Instructions
Ranch	1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste	1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, garlic, and lemon juice. 2. Season with salt and pepper.
Blue Cheese	1 cup crumbled blue cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste	1. In a bowl, mix together blue cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. 2. Season with salt and pepper.
Barbecue	1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste	1. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and garlic powder. 2. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.
Honey Mustard	1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste	1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, honey, and lemon juice. 2. Season with salt and pepper.
Garlic Aioli	1 cup mayonnaise, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste	1. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice. 2. Season with salt and pepper.
Jalapeno Dip	1 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapenos, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper to taste	1. In a bowl, combine sour cream, jalapenos, lime juice, and cumin. 2. Season with salt and pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Instead of Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders. To make them more flavorful, marinate the breasts in a spicy buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

How Can I Make the Buffalo Sauce Less Spicy?

If you want to make the buffalo sauce less spicy, you can try adding a little more butter or honey to balance out the heat. Another option is to use a milder hot sauce or even mix it with some ranch dressing for a creamy alternative.

Can I Make the Chicken Tenders Ahead of Time and Reheat Them?

Sure, you can totally make those chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them later. Just pop ’em in the oven or microwave, and voila! Easy peasy, chicken tender squeezy. Enjoy!

Can I Use a Different Type of Sauce for the Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of sauce for your chicken tenders. There are plenty of alternatives to buffalo sauce that will give your tenders a unique and delicious flavor.

Can I Use an Air Fryer Instead of Baking or Frying the Chicken Tenders?

Using an air fryer for chicken tenders is a great alternative to baking or frying. It provides a crispy texture without all the extra grease. Plus, it’s quicker and healthier. Give it a try!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these buffalo chicken tenders are a delicious and satisfying treat that will leave you wanting more.

Did you know that Americans consume over 1 billion chicken wings on Super Bowl Sunday alone? That’s enough to circle the Earth three times!

So why not switch it up and enjoy these flavorful tenders instead? Whether you bake or fry them, the crispy breading and spicy buffalo sauce will have your taste buds dancing with excitement.

Give them a try and elevate your game day snacking!