Name: Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders – Guilt-Free Flavor Boost!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders (fresh or thawed); 2 large Eggs (can use vegan egg replacer); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can also be used); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (optional); 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika enhances flavor); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (to taste); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred); 1.5 cups Breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs recommended); 0.5 cup Buffalo Sauce (can use any hot sauce or honey BBQ); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted or substitute with olive oil for dairy-free); 2 stalks Celery Sticks (for serving); 0.5 cup Blue Cheese Dressing (for serving)

The sizzle of chicken on a hot pan is one of life’s little joys, and when you transform it into Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders, you elevate that joy to a whole new level. These tenders offer a quick, guilt-free way to indulge in bold flavors—taking just 40 minutes from prep to plate. Baked instead of fried, they’re perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or as a party-ready appetizer that everyone will love. Plus, with their customizable buffalo sauce options, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds. Whether served with crunchy celery sticks or as a spicy sandwich, these tenders will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Ready to dive into this crispy delight? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are These Tenders So Irresistible?

Quick and Easy: Whipping up these Buffalo Chicken Tenders takes just 40 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Crispy Texture: Baked to perfection, they maintain that satisfying crunch you crave without the extra oil!

Customizable Flavors: With a variety of sauce options, from spicy to sweet, you can tailor each bite to your liking, just like with my Crack Chicken Tenders.

Crowd-Pleaser: These tenders are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering, just like my go-to Buffalo Chicken Tacos.

Healthy Indulgence: Enjoy the delightful flavors without the guilt, as these tenders are baked for a lighter option!

Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a finger food with celery sticks and blue cheese, or pile them onto a bun for a delicious spicy sandwich.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders – The star of the dish; go for fresh or thawed for best results.
Large Eggs – Binds the breadcrumbs; a vegan egg replacer works well too.

For the Coating

All-Purpose Flour – The base for a great coating; gluten-free flour is a perfect substitution.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory goodness; fresh minced garlic can boost the flavor even more.
Onion Powder – Enhances the taste; feel free to skip it if you prefer something milder.
Paprika – Gives color and warmth; smoked paprika is perfect for added depth.
Salt – Essential for flavor; adjust to your own taste preferences.
Black Pepper – Adds just the right amount of mild heat; freshly ground is best.
Breadcrumbs – Creates that irresistible crispy texture; panko breadcrumbs can elevate the crunch factor!

For the Sauce

Buffalo Sauce – Delivers that signature kick; try any hot sauce or honey BBQ for a different flavor twist.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and ensures the buffalo sauce sticks; swap for olive oil for a dairy-free option.

Optional Serving

Celery Sticks – A refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly; ideal for balance with the spice.
Blue Cheese Dressing – Enhances the flavors of the dish; adds a lovely creaminess to the tangy tenders.

Dive into these Buffalo Chicken Tenders and enjoy a crispy, guilt-free delight that’s easily customizable for everyone at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures an easy cleanup and helps the Buffalo Chicken Tenders crisp up nicely. While the oven heats, you can gather all your ingredients and equipment, making sure everything is within reach for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Coating Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until thoroughly mixed. This flavorful coating will give your Buffalo Chicken Tenders that perfect crunch when baked.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs
In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs until well-mixed. The egg wash acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs, ensuring a beautiful crust forms as the chicken cooks. A whisk or fork will do the trick for this step. The brighter the yellow, the fresher your eggs!

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumbs
Place about 1.5 cups of breadcrumbs into a third bowl, ready for coating. Panko breadcrumbs work beautifully here, adding an extra layer of crispiness to your Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Make sure they are evenly spread out to allow easy access for coating each tender.

Step 5: Dredge the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated while shaking off any excess. This step is crucial for building flavor and texture. Repeat this for each piece of chicken, laying them aside on a plate so they’re prepped for the next step.

Step 6: Dip into the Egg Wash
After coating each tender with flour, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any extra egg to drip off. This will create a moist surface that the breadcrumbs can adhere to, resulting in a crunchy outer layer once baked.

Step 7: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Move each egg-coated chicken tender to the bowl of breadcrumbs. Coat thoroughly, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. This layer will be the star of your Buffalo Chicken Tenders, giving them that satisfying crunch with each bite.

Step 8: Brush with Buffalo Sauce Mixture
In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of buffalo sauce with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. This enhances the flavor and helps the sauce adhere to the tenders. Brush this mixture generously over each coated chicken tender, ensuring an even coverage for that signature kick.

Step 9: Bake the Tenders
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow proper heat circulation. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The tenders should be crispy and inviting at the end!

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, allow the Buffalo Chicken Tenders to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic touch. These crispy tenders are a delicious guilt-free treat perfect for any occasion!

Buffalo Chicken Tenders Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these delicious twists on the classic Buffalo Chicken Tenders, perfect for every palate!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a safe, crispy alternative that tastes just as good.
Spicy Twist: Use sriracha or your favorite hot sauce instead of traditional buffalo sauce for an extra kick that will awaken your taste buds.
Sweet Heat: Swap buffalo sauce for honey BBQ sauce to create a sweet and tangy flavor combination that is sure to please.
Crispier Coating: Try panko breadcrumbs or cornflake crumbs for an even crispier texture—your family might love this crunch even more!
Vegan Option: Substitute chicken tenders with cauliflower bites and replace eggs with a vegan egg replacer for a plant-based delight that everyone can enjoy.
Herb Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the flour mixture to give a fragrant twist to the coating; it adds a lovely depth of flavor with every bite.
Asian-inspired: Toss the cooked tenders in a mix of ginger and soy sauce for a flavorful change reminiscent of Asian-style chicken that pairs wonderfully with rice.
Wrap it Up: Serve these tenders in a tortilla or lettuce wrap with fresh veggies and your choice of sauce for an exciting, handheld option—perfect for gatherings or dinner parties!

As you explore these variations, consider pairing your tenders with refreshing sides like celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, or try something different. You can never go wrong enjoying them alongside a zesty Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad or a rich Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Enjoy the journey of flavor as you cook!

Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders not only taste better but also yield a more tender result. Thawed chicken may be prone to dryness.
Panko for Crunch: Opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create a fantastically crispy texture that elevates your Buffalo Chicken Tenders.
Adjust the Heat: If you’re uncertain about spice levels, start with a mild buffalo sauce. You can always add more heat with cayenne or extra sauce later!
Mind Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This step helps achieve that golden brown color and delicious crispiness without overcooking the chicken.
Serve It Right: Pair your tenders with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for the ideal balance. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a fun crunch!

How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Buffalo Chicken Tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through for crispy results.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare and coat the chicken tenders ahead of time, refrigerating them in a covered container until you’re ready to bake for quick and easy weeknight meals.

Make Ahead Options

These Buffalo Chicken Tenders are perfect for busy weeks! You can prepare and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Simply follow the first seven steps in the recipe, then cover the coated tenders tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents any sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, just brush them with the buffalo sauce mixture and bake as directed for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. This way, you get all the deliciousness of homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Elevate your family dinner or gathering with delicious side dishes that perfectly complement these crispy delights.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the spicy tenders, offering a refreshing balance.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks add a comforting layer to your meal, perfect for soaking up any leftover buffalo sauce.
Vegetable Platter: Pair with colorful veggies like carrots and celery for a wholesome crunch, bringing freshness alongside the zesty tenders.
French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic combination, allowing for rich dips in ranch or blue cheese—an indulgent treat everyone will enjoy.
Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a deliciously sweet contrast to the spicy tenders, providing a delightful variance in every bite.
Ice-cold Beer: A crisp lager or pale ale cuts through the heat of the buffalo sauce, making for an irresistible combination that will keep the party going.
Zesty Lemonade: Fresh lemonade adds a tangy sweetness that balances the spicy elements of the tenders, quenching your thirst beautifully.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, offer warm cookies to round out the meal—a nostalgic finish everyone will love.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Look for chicken tenders that are bright pink with no dark spots or a sour smell. Fresh chicken is ideal, as it results in a more tender texture. If you’re using frozen tenders, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking for even results.

What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Very simple! Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, allowing them to regain that crunchy texture.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the cooked tenders cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What if my chicken tenders aren’t crispy?
Don’t worry! If your tenders turn out less crispy than expected, it may be due to excess moisture. Ensure the chicken is well-coated before baking. For optimal crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs and let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes to allow some steam to escape during baking.

Are Buffalo Chicken Tenders safe for my pets to eat?
It’s best to avoid sharing these with your pets. While chicken itself is generally safe, the buffalo sauce contains spices and salt that can be harmful to pets if ingested in large quantities. Always consult your veterinarian for safe food options.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Very much so! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure everyone at the table can enjoy these crispy delights. It’s a wonderful way to keep everyone included without sacrificing flavor!