Description
Crispy and flavorful Buffalo Chicken Tenders baked to perfection and tossed in a tangy buffalo wing sauce. Perfect for game day or a spicy main course, these tenders are coated in a seasoned flour and panko breadcrumb mixture, then baked until golden and tender. A delightful dish that combines the satisfying crunch of baking with the classic heat of buffalo sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Breading
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Other
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 425°F and lightly grease a wire rack set over a baking sheet or a large baking pan to ensure even cooking and crispy tenders.
- Prepare Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place the beaten eggs in a second bowl. Put the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat evenly with the panko breadcrumbs. This triple coating ensures a crispy, flavorful exterior.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared rack or pan in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden crisp.
- Make the Buffalo Sauce: While the chicken bakes, stir together the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter in a small bowl, creating the signature spicy and buttery flavor.
- Toss and Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and either toss them in the buffalo sauce or brush the sauce generously over each piece. Serve hot immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture before coating the chicken.
- These tenders can also be cooked in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
