Make Mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Tenders in Just 5 Steps!

If you’re craving a delectable combination of crispy texture and bold, spicy flavor, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Tenders. These irresistible bites are a favorite for game days, parties, and even a satisfying dinner option. With their perfectly breaded exterior and juicy, tender chicken interior, Buffalo Chicken Tenders are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you coming back for more.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

To create the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Tenders, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to deliver an unbeatable flavor profile. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into these mouthwatering morsels:

• 1½ lbs chicken breast tenderloins
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 cup Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping

Preparation Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

With the key ingredients in hand, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for preparing delectable Buffalo Chicken Tenders:

Prep the Coating Stations

Begin by setting up your coating stations. Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in a second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a third bowl.

Coat the Tenders

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Be sure to press lightly to ensure the coating sticks to the chicken.

Fry the Chicken

Heat ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Drain the fried tenders on paper towels.

Toss in Buffalo Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the Buffalo sauce and melted butter. Add the hot chicken tenders and toss until they’re fully coated in the spicy, buttery sauce.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders on a plate and serve with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Don’t forget to include some fresh celery and carrot sticks on the side for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Tenders turn out crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, here are a few helpful tips:

• Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the tenders to steam instead of fry, resulting in a less crispy exterior.
• Use high-heat oil: Opt for an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or peanut oil, to maintain the ideal frying temperature.
• Adjust sauce consistency: If the Buffalo sauce seems too thin, you can thicken it by adding a bit more melted butter. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Buffalo sauce.
• Serve immediately: The tenders are best enjoyed hot and fresh, as the coating can lose its crispness if left to sit for too long.

Nutritional Information

While Buffalo Chicken Tenders are undoubtedly delicious, it’s important to consider their nutritional profile. A 4-ounce serving of fried Buffalo Chicken Tenders can contain approximately 350-400 calories, with a significant portion coming from the breading and frying process. However, these tenders also provide a good source of protein, with around 30 grams per serving.

To make Buffalo Chicken Tenders a bit more health-conscious, you can try baking them instead of frying, which can reduce the calorie and fat content. Additionally, you can experiment with alternative coatings, such as almond flour or crushed pork rinds, to create a keto-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Buffalo Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve them as an appetizer or main dish, accompanied by fresh celery and carrot sticks, along with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also pair well with a simple salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

For a fun twist, you can use the Buffalo Chicken Tenders as the protein base for a buffalo chicken wrap, a buffalo chicken salad, or even a buffalo chicken pizza. The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating these flavorful tenders into your culinary creations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What temperature is safe for chicken tenders?

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Tenders are cooked to a safe internal temperature, aim for 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This temperature kills any harmful bacteria and ensures the chicken is fully cooked through.

How many calories are in buffalo tenders?

A 4-ounce serving of fried Buffalo Chicken Tenders can contain approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific recipe and preparation method. The calorie count can vary based on factors such as the type of oil used for frying and the amount of Buffalo sauce and butter added.

What makes chicken tenders tough?

Overcooked or overworked chicken tenders can become tough and chewy. Factors that can contribute to tough Buffalo Chicken Tenders include frying at too high of a temperature, overcooking the chicken, or excessively handling the tenders during the breading process. To prevent toughness, be sure to fry the tenders at the proper temperature and avoid overcooking them.

How to keep chicken tenders moist when cooking?

To keep your Buffalo Chicken Tenders juicy and moist, follow these tips:

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken: Start with tender, fresh chicken tenderloins for the best results.
• Brine the chicken: Soak the chicken in a saltwater brine for 30 minutes to an hour before breading and frying. This helps the tenders retain moisture.
• Avoid overcooking: Keep a close eye on the tenders and remove them from the oil as soon as they’re golden brown and cooked through.
• Toss in sauce immediately: Coating the hot, freshly fried tenders in the Buffalo sauce helps lock in moisture and adds a delicious flavor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
• Sweet Chili Chicken
• BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, planning a party menu, or simply craving a zesty dinner option, Buffalo Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit. With their irresistible combination of crispy texture and bold, spicy flavor, these tenders are a delightful addition to any meal. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to savor the deliciousness!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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