Easy Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re someone who loves Buffalo wings, but you’re looking for a quicker and easier option that still delivers that spicy, crispy goodness, then these Buffalo chicken tenders are just what you need! Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious snack or looking for something to serve at dinner, these tenders are perfect. I’m all about recipes that save me time in the kitchen, but still leave me with a satisfying meal, and this one definitely fits that bill.

We’re talking crispy, juicy tenders coated in a tangy, spicy Buffalo sauce that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Plus, these tenders are baked, not fried, so you can enjoy all the flavor without the mess or the extra calories. So, if you’re craving a simple, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table, look no further than these Buffalo chicken tenders. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Tenders

There’s so much to love about this recipe. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or serving them at a party, these tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you’ll want to make them as soon as possible:

• Quick and Easy – I love meals that I can get on the table in 30 minutes or less, and these tenders are exactly that! No long prep time, no complicated ingredients, just simple steps for an amazing result.
• Crispy and Tender – The key to perfect chicken tenders is getting the coating crispy while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This recipe nails it.
• Flavor Explosion – The tangy, spicy Buffalo sauce gives these tenders a flavor that’s just the right balance of heat and richness. Plus, it’s so easy to make!
• Customizable – If you like your tenders extra crispy or extra spicy, this recipe is super flexible. You can make it just the way you like it!

What You’ll Need for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients. Most of them are probably already in your kitchen, which is always a plus when you’re looking for a quick and easy meal!

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into strips if you prefer)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for a smoky flavor that’s a must)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk (helps to thin the egg wash for a smoother coating)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy texture)

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• ½ cup hot sauce (I love Frank’s RedHot for that classic Buffalo flavor, but you can use any brand you like)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (adds a nice tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for a little depth in the flavor)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Making these Buffalo chicken tenders is incredibly simple, and the best part is that it’s all done in the oven, so you don’t have to worry about splattering oil everywhere. Here’s the step-by-step guide to getting these tenders in your tummy:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab your chicken tenders and pat them dry with a paper towel. You want to get rid of any excess moisture so that the coating sticks really well to the chicken.

Step 2: Set Up the Coating Station

In one shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is your dry coating. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs with the milk to create an egg wash. Lastly, in a third dish, pour in the breadcrumbs (again, panko breadcrumbs work great here for extra crunch).

Now, the fun part—coating the chicken! Take each chicken tender and coat it first in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully covered. Then dip it into the egg wash, and finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures that the tenders don’t stick and that they bake evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken Tenders

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken tenders for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to flip them halfway through the cooking time to make sure they crisp up nicely on both sides. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy when they’re done, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the chicken is baking, it’s time to make the Buffalo sauce! In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything blends together smoothly. The sauce should be nice and thick, but still pourable.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Buffalo Sauce

Once your chicken tenders are out of the oven and perfectly crispy, it’s time to coat them in that delicious Buffalo sauce. You can either pour the sauce directly over the tenders or, for a less messy option, place the tenders in a bowl, pour the sauce over them, and toss to coat. You want every bite to be loaded with that tangy, spicy sauce!

Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Tenders

• For Extra Crispiness – If you want your tenders to be even crispier, give them a light spray with cooking spray before baking. This will help them brown beautifully without extra oil.
• Use a Cooling Rack – To get crispy tenders on all sides, place them on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, which helps it cook evenly and stay crispy.
• Adjust the Spice – If you like your tenders on the spicier side, feel free to add a little more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Buffalo sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce and add a touch of honey for sweetness.
• Make It Ahead – These tenders are great for meal prep! You can bread the chicken ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to eat. Or, if you’ve got leftovers, they keep well in the fridge for a couple of days.

Serving Ideas for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

These tenders are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of sides to make a full meal. Here are some ideas:

• Celery and Carrot Sticks – These are classic sides that help balance the heat of the Buffalo sauce. Plus, they add a nice crunch.
• Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing – You can’t go wrong with a creamy dipping sauce to cool things down. I personally love blue cheese, but ranch is always a hit too.
• Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – The crispy tenders go so well with fries, and sweet potato fries are a great healthier option.
• Salad – If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to these spicy tenders.
• Mac and Cheese – For a comforting side, you can’t beat mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy pasta pairs so well with the bold flavors of the tenders.

Why You’ll Want to Make These Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Let’s be honest: when you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that’s still delicious, Buffalo chicken tenders are hard to beat. They’re simple, they’re flavorful, and they’re something everyone in your family will love. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, serving them for game day, or just enjoying a snack on the couch, these tenders are always a great choice.

Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also really customizable. You can adjust the spice level, choose your favorite dipping sauces, or even try them with different coatings like crushed cornflakes for an extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes them so fun to cook and eat!

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you enough how much I love these Buffalo chicken tenders. They’re one of those recipes that’s become a staple in my house because they’re quick, easy, and always a hit. They’re perfect for busy nights, game day, or whenever I’m in the mood for something flavorful without spending too much time in the kitchen.

So, the next time you’re looking for a tasty, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in no time, give these tenders a try. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll be hooked!