Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are an amazing way to enjoy bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. If you love the spicy and tangy bite of Buffalo sauce, these tenders will take your taste buds on an exciting adventure. This recipe combines tender chicken with a crispy coating that’s perfectly balanced with hot sauce. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving something delicious, these tenders are bound to impress. Imagine biting into a perfectly breaded chicken strip, the crispy exterior giving way to juicy, flavorful meat infused with rich Buffalo sauce. They’re perfect as a game day snack or even as a tasty dinner option. You’ll appreciate the harmonious blend of spices and textures that makes these tenders not just a meal but a delight! What makes this recipe stand out is how simple it is to create such flavorful tenders. With the right ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. In this guide, you’ll discover why this recipe is simply irresistible, how to prepare it with ease, and the best ways to serve these tenders. Let’s dive into the amazing world of Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders and learn how to make them a favorite in your household!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a favorite for many. Here are several reasons why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:
- Excellent Flavor Profile: The combination of spices creates a savory, spicy, and tangy profile that satisfies every craving.
- Texture Perfection: The crispy breading contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, creating an irresistible bite.
- Customizable Heat: You can easily adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or hotter Buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow, making it great for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Dipping: Pair these tenders with your favorite dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even guacamole for added enjoyment.
- Meal or Snack: Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these tenders shine in any setting.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating these amazing Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders will take a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for preferred spice level)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce, plus more for drizzling (preferably hot sauce)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders:- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about half an inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated, and shake off excess flour.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Once all tenders are cooked, place them in a large bowl and drizzle with Buffalo sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve Immediately: Arrange the tenders on a serving platter while they’re still hot.
How to Serve
When it comes to serving Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, presentation and pairing make all the difference. Here are some suggestions:- Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve the tenders immediately after tossing in Buffalo sauce.
- Accompaniments: Include rich dips like ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing on the side. Fresh veggies—like carrot and celery sticks—add a refreshing crunch.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- On a Platter: Arrange the tenders artistically on a platter. Use small bowls for dips to create a visually appealing spread.
- As Part of a Meal: Serve alongside classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad to create a full meal.
- In a Sandwich: Place the tenders in a sub roll with lettuce and extra sauce for a flavorful sandwich option.
Additional Tips
- Use High-Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, organic chicken tenders for the best flavor and texture. This will enhance the overall quality of your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding chicken. If it’s too cool, the tenders will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breading for a unique twist. A pinch of cumin or oregano can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Let Them Rest: After frying, allow the tenders to rest for a minute before tossing them in Buffalo sauce. This helps maintain their crispiness.
- Adjust Coating Thickness: For thicker breading, dip the tenders in the buttermilk again after coating with flour and then re-coat with flour.
Recipe Variation
Embrace creativity in your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders! Here are some variations to try:- Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat the tenders and bake them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This version is healthier but still packed with flavor.
- Pesto Add-On: Before dipping in Buffalo sauce, spread a thin layer of pesto on the tenders for an herbaceous twist.
- Different Sauces: Replace Buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, or teriyaki sauce for a different taste experience.
- Spicy Parmesan Crust: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breading for a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the Buffalo sauce.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the cooked tenders to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat the tenders in the oven at 400°F until heated through and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
Special Equipment
While the recipe is straightforward, having these tools will make the process easier:- Heavy-Duty Skillet: For frying, a deep cast-iron skillet or heavy non-stick pan works best to maintain consistent heat.
- Tongs: Use tongs to handle the chicken tenders safely while frying.
- Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure of cooking time, a meat thermometer can help ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Baking Sheet: For placing the tenders after frying, a lined baking sheet helps catch any excess oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, chicken breast can be sliced into strips and used in place of tenders.
How do I know if my oil is hot enough?
Drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready.
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, they can be cooked in advance and then reheated before serving.
Are these tenders suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They are versatile and can be stored in the refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week.
Can I bake these tenders instead of frying?
Yes, for a healthier option, bake them at 400°F until crispy.