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–+ servings
Merry

Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a Must-Try Recipe!

Crispy, juicy, and coated in a bold, tangy buffalo sauce, these Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a must-try! Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they deliver the perfect balance of heat and crunch. Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing and a side of celery sticks for the ultimate game-day or weeknight meal!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot
  • 3 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional, for a hint of sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For Serving:
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • Celery and carrot sticks

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Breading: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Cook the Tenders:
  1. Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Spray tenders with cooking spray and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  2. Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
  3. Frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Make the Buffalo Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
  5. Toss and Serve: Coat the crispy chicken tenders in buffalo sauce. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and fresh veggies.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level by using more or less hot sauce.
  • For extra crispy tenders, double-coat in flour and panko.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free option.
  • Try grilling the tenders instead for a lighter version.

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