Picture this: succulent chicken tenders, slathered in a spicy, buttery sauce that dances on your taste buds with every bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, and you can’t help but feel a little giddy—because today is the day you’re making Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders! This dish is not just food; it’s a culinary hug that warms your soul and sets the mood for any game night or casual gathering. For more inspiration, check out this appetizer ideas recipe.
Let me take you back to a memorable evening when I first whipped up these delightful tenders for my friends. We were hosting a movie marathon, and as soon as those tenders hit the table, laughter filled the room. Everyone dove in like there was no tomorrow, and the plate emptied faster than I could say “buffalo sauce.” Trust me; you’re going to want to make these tasty bites for your next gathering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are incredibly easy to whip up, making dinner a breeze
- The bold flavors will leave everyone craving more
- Their vibrant color adds visual appeal to any dish
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course, they’re perfect for any occasion
I remember one time when my buddy Dave tried to impress everyone by saying he was a “chicken tender connoisseur.” Little did he know he’d never tasted anything like my Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The look on his face when he took that first bite was priceless—a mixture of joy and disbelief.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your crowd size.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a nice coating; use it generously for that crunchy texture.
- Eggs: Two large eggs will bind everything beautifully; whisk them until frothy for best results.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch! Make sure you get the plain variety for ultimate flavor absorption.
- Buffalo Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade; it’s all about that zingy kick!
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons will enrich the sauce and give it that luscious finish.
- Garlic Powder: This brings in another layer of flavor; trust me, it’s essential!
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet vital for seasoning your chicken just right.
For the Sauce:
- Hot Sauce (Optional): If you like an extra kick, add more hot sauce into the mix!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. You want those tenders crispy without a sticky mess afterward.
Prepare Your Chicken: Cut your boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide. Pat them dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick better and makes them crispier.
Dredge the Chicken Tenders: Set up three bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with whisked eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder. Dip each chicken piece into flour first, then eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Bake Those Bad Boys!: Place your coated chicken strips on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy—the aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
Make the Sauce : While those crispy tenders are cooking away in their own deliciousness, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in buffalo sauce until well combined. Taste it; if you dare add more hot sauce if you’re feeling fiery!
Toss and Serve!: Once your chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C), drizzle or toss them in the buffalo sauce until well-coated. Serve immediately while they’re still warm!
With every bite of these Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, you’ll experience an explosion of flavor that’s both spicy and satisfying! Perfectly paired with celery sticks or ranch dressing for dipping—because let’s be honest, what’s life without ranch? Enjoy this finger-licking good recipe at home!
You Must Know
- Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a crowd-pleaser, balancing tangy and spicy flavors
- These tenders are perfect for game day or a casual dinner, adding excitement to any meal
- The crispy coating paired with the sauce creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Then, coat them in seasoned flour and bake or fry until golden brown. Toss them in buffalo sauce just before serving for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders by using different sauces, like garlic parmesan or honey barbecue. You can also add herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a fresh twist. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting every time you make it.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring they remain crispy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Achieving golden-brown tenders requires patience; avoid overcrowding during cooking
- Letting the chicken rest post-cooking enhances its juiciness while maintaining flavor
- Always taste your sauce before tossing to adjust spiciness according to preference
Sharing this recipe has brought smiles, laughter, and countless requests from friends who couldn’t get enough of my Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders at parties.
FAQ
What can I serve with Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
These tenders pair well with celery sticks and blue cheese dip for that classic combo.
Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular flour.
How spicy are Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
The spice level depends on your buffalo sauce choice; opt for mild if preferred.
Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are your new go-to appetizer for game nights or casual gatherings. These tender, crispy bites are coated in a spicy, buttery buffalo sauce that will have everyone reaching for more. With a balance of heat and flavor, these chicken tenders are perfect for sharing (or not!). Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’ll steal the show at any event.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch wide and pat dry.
- Set up three bowls: one with seasoned flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, then egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
- Place coated strips on the baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in buffalo sauce.
- Toss baked tenders in the sauce before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 chicken tenders (120g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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