Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Baked Buffalo Chicken tenders are a healthier version of the traditional fried chicken, but they’re just as tasty! These tenders have the perfect crunch-heat combination thanks to the crispy breadcrumbs, spicy buffalo sauce, and tangy blue cheese or ranch dip. This is a great snack, meal, or game-day food!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders

• Chicken breasts 1 lb (or chicken breasts sliced into strips).
• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (Panko breadcrumbs are best for a crunchier texture)
• Half a cup of grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Cayenne pepper, optional (for extra heat).
• To taste: salt and pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Use 1/4 cup of olive oil or butter melted (for brushing).

Buffalo Sauce

• 12 cup buffalo sauce, homemade or store-bought
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter melted
• Honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness).
• Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for an extra kick.

You can serve:

• Dip in ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Celery or carrot sticks are optional.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken tenders:

• Preheat your oven to 200degC (400degF).
• Line the baking sheet with parchment or a silicone baking mat.
• To help the breading adhere to the chicken tenders, pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. Bread the Chicken Tenders

• Combine the garlic powder, onion, paprika and cayenne pepper in a shallow bowl.
• Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl.
• The breadcrumb mixture should be applied to each chicken tender after it has been coated in the egg. Press gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
• Place the chicken tenders in one layer on the baking sheet.

3. Bake the chicken tenders:

• To crisp them up in the oven, lightly brush the tops of each chicken tender with melted butter or olive oil.
• The chicken tenders should be baked in a preheated oven at 165degF (74degC) for 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through.

4. Make the Buffalo Sauce

• Make the buffalo sauce while the chicken tenders bake. Combine the butter, honey, and garlic powder in a small dish. Stir until well mixed.

5. Buffalo sauce on chicken tenders:

• Remove the chicken tenders from the oven once they are done baking. Toss the chicken tenders into the buffalo sauce while they are still hot. You can either dip each tender individually or put them in a bowl and gently mix to coat.

6. Serve:

• Serve the buffalo chicken tenders with ranch or blue cheese dressing as a dip.
• Optional: Add carrot or celery sticks to the dish for a crunchy crunch.

Tip and variations:

• Add cayenne or more buffalo sauce to the breadcrumb mix for extra heat.
• Healthy Option: To make a healthier version, you can leave out the butter and replace it with a low-fat dipping dressing like Greek yogurt ranch.
• Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Baked and Not Fried: To get crispy baked chicken, brush the tenders with oil or butter prior to baking. This mimics the crispy texture without adding extra calories.
• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Place them on a cookie sheet and bake for 5-10 mins at 375degF.

Nutritional Information per tender (based on 12 bids)

Note: The nutritional values listed are approximations and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories per serving: 200-250 calories
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

Why You’ll Love These Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders:

These Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, offering all the classic buffalo wing taste in a healthier, baked form. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are easy to make, versatile with your favorite dipping sauces, and customizable to your preferred level of heat. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a party snack, or a gameday treat, these tenders are sure to be a crowd favorite!