There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a crispy, golden Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tender. You get that perfect crunch followed by a spicy, tangy explosion that’s like a party in your mouth. And let’s be honest; they’re not just chicken tenders—they’re the life of the appetizer table, the star of game day, and the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Whenever I make these Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, I can’t help but think back to that time my friends and I gathered for a movie marathon. With sauce dripping down our fingers and laughter filling the room, we devoured them faster than popcorn! Whether it’s a Saturday night binge-watch or a casual weeknight dinner, these tenders always steal the show. sweet and sour chicken Huli Huli grilled chicken.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are not only quick to whip up but also packed with flavor that keeps you coming back for more
- Their vibrant color makes them an irresistible addition to any spread
- Enjoy them as a snack or transform them into a meal with salad or wraps
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging solo!
I still remember how my family couldn’t stop raving about these tenders during our last game night. The cheers were loud, but the crunch was louder!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 medium-sized breasts; they cook evenly and are easy to slice.
All-Purpose Flour: This will create a lovely crispy coating; don’t skip this crucial ingredient!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an incredible crunch you won’t get from regular breadcrumbs.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of this gives the tenders an aromatic boost of flavor.
Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that fiery kick!
Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying; opt for a high smoke point oil like canola or peanut.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
For the Sauce:
Butter: Use unsalted butter to balance out the heat from the buffalo sauce perfectly.
Hot Sauce (Optional): If you’re feeling adventurous, add more hot sauce into your melted butter!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts, then slice them into strips about one inch wide. This size ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
Dredge in Flour: Place flour in one bowl and season generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken strip in flour until coated well; shake off any excess flour.
Bread Those Tenders!: In another bowl, beat an egg with a splash of water. Dip each floured chicken strip into the egg mixture before rolling them in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
Heat Up That Oil!: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers—this means it’s ready! You want this oil hot enough to create that signature crunch.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place your breaded chicken strips in hot oil without overcrowding the pan. crispy chicken cutlets Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Add That Saucy Goodness!: Once cooked through, remove tenders from the oil and drain on paper towels. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter with buffalo sauce before tossing your crispy tenders in this flavorful concoction.
Enjoying these Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders is bound to be an unforgettable experience whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging solo on the couch! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
You Must Know
- Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are perfect for game day or a casual dinner
- Enjoy the crispy texture paired with that spicy, tangy sauce
- The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen like moths to a flame!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the chicken tenders in buffalo sauce while preheating your oven. This ensures maximum flavor absorption and tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out buffalo sauce for honey mustard or teriyaki for a sweet twist. Add some garlic powder for an extra flavor kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh chicken tenders for the best texture; frozen ones can be too watery
- Always taste your sauce before applying it to adjust heat levels
- Pair these tenders with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing for a perfect contrast
I remember the first time I made Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders for a party; they vanished faster than I could say “buffalo sauce!” Everyone raved about them, and I felt like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Using fresh chicken tends to yield better results than frozen options.
What can I serve with Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Pair them with celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic combo. chipotle ranch burrito.
How do I make them less spicy?
Mix in some honey or BBQ sauce to tone down the heat of buffalo sauce.
Delicious Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible crunch and spicy flavor of Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, these tenders offer a delightful mix of crispy coating and tangy sauce that will have everyone coming back for more. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they can be enjoyed as a snack or transformed into a meal. Get ready for a taste sensation that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for the sauce)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide.
- Dredge each strip in seasoned flour (flour mixed with salt and pepper).
- Dip floured strips into beaten egg mixed with water, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry chicken strips for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels; toss in a bowl with melted butter and buffalo sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 990mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Marinate chicken in buffalo sauce for extra flavor before cooking. Substitute buffalo sauce with honey mustard or teriyaki for different tastes. Serve with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing.
