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Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe

4.5 from 62 reviews

This Buffalo Chicken Tenders recipe features crispy, golden fried chicken strips tossed in a tangy and spicy homemade buffalo sauce. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or main dish, these tenders deliver the classic Buffalo wing experience in an easy-to-eat finger food form. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re ideal for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • Oil (for frying, about 1/2 inch deep)

For the Buffalo Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Set Up Breading Station: In three shallow bowls, mix the flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the first bowl. Beat the eggs in the second bowl. Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl, preparing each ingredient for the breading process.
  2. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture first, coating evenly, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Arrange the breaded tenders on a plate and set aside.
  3. Heat Oil: Pour about half an inch of oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until hot but not smoking, ideal for frying the chicken tenders to a golden crisp.
  4. Fry Tenders: Carefully place the breaded tenders in the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Make the Buffalo Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, white vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth and combined, creating a classic tangy Buffalo flavor.
  6. Toss Chicken in Sauce: Place the fried chicken tenders in a large bowl. Pour the prepared buffalo sauce over the tenders and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
  7. Serve: Serve the buffalo chicken tenders hot, accompanied by your choice of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese, and celery sticks for refreshing crunch alongside.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce to the buffalo sauce.
  • Ensure oil temperature is steady to avoid soggy tenders—too hot will burn the crust, too cool will make them greasy.
  • Leftover tenders can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Keywords: Buffalo chicken tenders, crispy chicken, buffalo sauce, fried chicken strips, appetizer, game day food