Buffalo Chicken Tenders are crispy, deep-fried strips of marinated chicken breasts smothered in a flavorful homemade buffalo sauce. These boneless tenders are easy to eat, perfect for dipping, and bring the same great taste as buffalo wings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into vertical strips
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
3 cups buttermilk
¼ cup buffalo sauce

Chicken Coatings

4 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups panko breading
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon water
2 cups buffalo sauce
Oil, for frying

Directions

Marinate the Chicken

Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper and place them in a large bowl.
Add the buttermilk and buffalo sauce, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (up to 48 hours for maximum flavor).

Prepare the Coatings

Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and water.
In a third bowl, mix 2 cups of the flour mixture with the panko breading.

Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the panko mixture.
Place the coated chicken on the lined baking sheet.

Fry the Chicken

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large pot over medium-low heat until it reaches 350°F.
Working in batches, fry 3-4 chicken tenders at a time for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Transfer the fried tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Place the fried tenders in a large bowl and toss them with buffalo sauce until fully coated.
Serve immediately with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Estimated)

Calories: 1333
Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Moderate
Fat: High
Sodium: High

Enjoy these crispy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders as a tasty appetizer or a delicious meal!

The Origin of Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Buffalo chicken dishes trace their origins to Buffalo, New York, where buffalo wings were first introduced in the 1960s at the Anchor Bar. The popularity of buffalo sauce—a mix of hot sauce, butter, and seasonings—quickly spread across the country, leading to the creation of various buffalo-inspired dishes. Buffalo Chicken Tenders became a logical evolution, offering the same spicy kick in a more convenient, boneless form. Today, they are a staple at sports bars, restaurants, and home kitchens worldwide.

Why Buffalo Chicken Tenders Are So Popular

There are several reasons why Buffalo Chicken Tenders have become a favorite for many food lovers:

Crispy and Crunchy Texture: The combination of flour, panko, and cornstarch ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Bold and Spicy Flavor: The buffalo sauce provides a tangy heat that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfect for Dipping: Whether it’s ranch, blue cheese, or even honey mustard, these tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of dips.
Easy to Eat: Unlike traditional wings, Buffalo Chicken Tenders are boneless, making them less messy and easier to enjoy.
Great for Any Occasion: From casual snacking to party platters, these tenders fit into any mealtime setting.

How Buffalo Chicken Tenders Are Made

The process of making Buffalo Chicken Tenders involves marinating, breading, frying, and tossing them in buffalo sauce. The marinade, typically consisting of buttermilk and buffalo sauce, infuses the chicken with flavor while also tenderizing it. The breading ensures a crispy outer layer, and the final toss in buffalo sauce gives the tenders their signature taste.

Tips for Achieving the Best Buffalo Chicken Tenders

To get the best results, here are some essential tips:

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken soak in the buttermilk mixture for at least 3 hours. For even better results, marinate overnight.
Use a Three-Step Breading Process: Flour, eggs, and panko help create the crispiest crust possible.
Maintain the Right Oil Temperature: Frying at 350°F ensures that the tenders cook evenly and don’t become greasy.
Toss in Sauce Just Before Serving: Coating the tenders in buffalo sauce while they’re still hot allows them to absorb the flavor while maintaining their crunch.
Pair with Cooling Dips: Blue cheese or ranch dressing help balance the heat, making each bite more enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Buffalo Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:

As a Main Dish: Serve with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad.
In a Sandwich: Add the tenders to a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese.
In a Wrap: Wrap the tenders in a flour tortilla with lettuce, cheese, and a bit of extra buffalo sauce.
On a Salad: Chop the tenders and add them to a bed of greens with crumbled blue cheese and ranch dressing.
With Dipping Sauces: Offering a variety of dips enhances the experience and caters to different taste preferences.

Health Considerations

While Buffalo Chicken Tenders are undeniably delicious, they are deep-fried, making them higher in calories and fat. However, there are ways to make a healthier version:

Use an Air Fryer: This method significantly reduces the amount of oil while still maintaining crispiness.
Bake Instead of Fry: Baking at a high temperature (around 425°F) with a light coating of oil can produce a crunchy texture without deep frying.
Choose Leaner Chicken Cuts: Using chicken breast ensures high protein content with minimal fat.
Make a Lighter Sauce: Opt for a buffalo sauce with less butter or use a yogurt-based dressing for dipping.

Pairing Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Drinks

To complement the heat and bold flavor of Buffalo Chicken Tenders, consider pairing them with refreshing drinks:

Cold Beer: A light lager or an IPA balances the spiciness.
Iced Tea: A sweet or unsweetened iced tea helps cool down the heat.
Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade pairs well with the tangy buffalo sauce.
Milk-Based Drinks: If the spice is too much, milk or a milkshake can help neutralize the heat.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Tenders are the perfect fusion of crispy, juicy chicken and the iconic flavor of buffalo sauce. They offer an easy-to-eat, boneless alternative to buffalo wings without sacrificing any of the taste. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer, a main dish, or a snack, these tenders are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With endless serving options and the ability to adjust the spice level, they are a must-try for any fan of bold and flavorful food. If you haven’t yet tried making Buffalo Chicken Tenders at home, now is the perfect time to do so and enjoy this delicious, crispy treat!

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