Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Tender chicken strips are coated in a crisp seasoned crust, baked or fried to perfection, then tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce. This version delivers the fiery punch you crave with a gooey, satisfying finish and optional cooling sides. Perfect for weeknights, game days, or a fun dinner with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- to taste optional dipping sauces
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if you’ll bake the tenders. Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup, or prepare a wire rack set over the sheet for extra crispy bottoms.
- Prepare a dredging station: place flour in one shallow bowl, eggs in another, and combine breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a third bowl.
- Pat the chicken strips dry. Dredge first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet or rack. Lightly spray or brush them with a little oil to encourage browning.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you prefer frying, heat 1/2 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on a rack or paper towels.
- While the tenders cook, whisk together the buffalo sauce by heating the hot sauce with melted butter until glossy and well combined. Taste and adjust heat by adding more hot sauce or a pinch of sugar for balance.
- Toss the hot tenders in the buffalo sauce until fully coated. For a lighter coverage, you can brush the sauce on instead of tossing.
- Serve immediately with celery sticks and dipping sauces of choice. Enjoy while warm for the best texture and flavor.