There’s something about biting into a Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tender that makes you feel like you’re winning at life. Picture this: a crispy exterior, juicy chicken inside, and a spicy, buttery sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that turns any meal into a celebration, whether you’re having friends over for game night or just need to spice up your Tuesday dinner. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone peeking around the corner, eager to see what delicious goodness is cooking. For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner ideas recipe.
Now, let me tell you why these tenders are my go-to recipe. The first time I made them was during a cozy winter evening with friends. As we gathered around the table, the laughter and chatter mixed with the tantalizing scent of buffalo sauce created an atmosphere so warm and inviting that it felt like a scene from a movie. Everyone devoured these tenders and begged for seconds. I knew right then and there that I had found my culinary soulmate—something easy to make yet so incredibly satisfying!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are surprisingly simple to whip up, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings
- The flavor profile balances spicy and savory elements, ensuring every bite is an explosion of deliciousness
- Their vibrant color and crispy texture make them visually stunning on any plate
- Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or a main dish, they can accompany various sides!
I still remember my friend Sarah’s face when she took her first bite—pure bliss! It’s safe to say these tenders have won many hearts (and stomachs) over the years.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 breasts; adjust according to how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- All-Purpose Flour: This will create that lovely crisp coating; choose unbleached flour for better results.
- Eggs: You’ll need about 2 eggs for binding; use large eggs for optimal consistency.
- Breadcrumbs: Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra kick; they add great texture and flavor.
- Buffalo Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade for an authentic kick; Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice.
- Butter: About ½ cup melted butter adds richness to your sauce; unsalted works best here.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder enhances the flavor profile beautifully; fresh garlic can also work if finely minced.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for depth; it complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
For the Sauce:
- Honey: Just a tablespoon helps balance the heat from the buffalo sauce; it’s amazing what sweetness can do!
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences but don’t skimp!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Chicken Tenders: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, cut your chicken breasts into strips about one inch thick. This ensures even cooking and creates perfect tenders.
Breading Station Setup: Set up three bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with paprika. This assembly line method makes breading super efficient.
Bread Those Tenders!: Coat each chicken strip in flour first, shaking off excess. Then dip into egg wash before rolling in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop those beauties in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You want them crisp but juicy—keep an eye out!
Create Your Saucy Mix!: While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in buffalo sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined—a heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen!
Coat & Serve!: Once your tenders are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over them while they’re hot! Toss gently until every tender is coated in that glorious sauciness.
Enjoy these Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders hot out of the oven! They’re meant to be shared—unless you’re feeling particularly greedy (trust me, I won’t judge). Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side if you’re feeling extra indulgent! For more inspiration, check out this appetizer recipes.
You Must Know
- Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are the ultimate game-day snack
- This recipe is easy to customize and perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in with friends
- The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce will fill your kitchen, making it impossible to resist
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken tenders in buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes. Then, bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the buffalo sauce for BBQ or teriyaki sauce if you want a different flavor. Adding blue cheese crumbles or sliced jalapeños can elevate these tenders even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken longer for deeper flavor absorption and tenderness
- Always preheat your oven; this ensures even cooking and a crispy finish
- If frying, ensure oil is hot enough to avoid soggy tenders
The first time I made Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, my friends devoured them in seconds! Their laughter and satisfaction made me realize this recipe would become a household favorite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.
What can I serve with Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Pair them with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for the perfect complement.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely! Baking makes them healthier while still deliciously crispy.
Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in these Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, where crispy, golden chicken meets a spicy, buttery buffalo sauce. Perfect for game nights or cozy dinners, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress family and friends. With a flavor explosion in every bite and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself making these tenders time and time again.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup buffalo sauce (Frank's RedHot recommended)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut chicken breasts into strips about one inch thick.
- Set up three bowls: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika.
- Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip into egg wash, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, melt butter in a saucepan and stir in buffalo sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Once tenders are done baking, toss them in the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For deeper flavor, marinate chicken in buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes before coating. - Feel free to substitute buffalo sauce with BBQ or teriyaki sauce for different flavors. - Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic pairing.
