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Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe

4.6 from 98 reviews

Crispy, flavorful Buffalo Chicken Tenders coated in a spicy homemade buffalo sauce, perfect for a snack, appetizer, or casual meal. These tenders are breaded and fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a tangy and buttery hot sauce mixture for a delicious and irresistible dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • Oil (for frying)

For the Buffalo Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow bowls, combine the flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the first bowl. Beat the eggs in the second bowl. Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
  2. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture ensuring an even coat, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumbs. Set the breaded tenders aside on a plate.
  3. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour oil to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  4. Fry Tenders: Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders in batches to the hot oil. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the cooked tenders and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
  5. Make Buffalo Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted unsalted butter, white vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
  6. Coat Tenders in Sauce: Transfer the fried chicken tenders into a large bowl. Pour the prepared buffalo sauce over them and toss gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
  7. Serve: Serve the buffalo chicken tenders hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch or blue cheese. Add celery sticks on the side for a classic accompaniment.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips if chicken tenders are unavailable.
  • For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce to control the level of spiciness.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature stays around 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.
  • Buffalo chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Keywords: Buffalo chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, fried chicken, buffalo sauce, appetizer, finger foods, party snacks