Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Buffalo chicken tenders are a beloved staple in American cuisine, celebrated for their bold flavors and irresistible crunch. These tender morsels of chicken, coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, are a favorite at sports events, casual gatherings, and family dinners alike. Their popularity can be attributed to the perfect combination of heat and flavor, making them an ideal finger food that’s hard to resist. However, this recipe takes the classic buffalo chicken tenders to the next level by introducing a unique twist: a crispy panko coating complemented by a homemade buttermilk marinade. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that each bite is packed with crunch and zest.

Get ready to elevate your snacking game with these Fiery Crunch Buffalo Chicken Tenders! This recipe features juicy chicken tenderloins marinated in a tangy buttermilk blend, then coated in a crispy panko crust and tossed in spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for game days or casual family dinners, these tenders deliver an irresistible crunch with each bite. Follow our step-by-step guide for a delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering!

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Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup buffalo sauce (plus more for serving)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and ensure they are fully coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best flavor).

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:

- In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.

- In the second bowl, pour in the buttermilk marinade, reserving a few tablespoons for later.

- In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a sprinkle of salt and paprika for extra flavor.

Bread the Chicken Tenders: Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, shaking off the excess. Dredge it in the flour, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the breaded chicken tenders lightly with olive oil to help achieve that crispy texture.

Bake the Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Once baked, remove the tenders from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with buffalo sauce (use the reserved marinade if you want extra flavor) and gently toss to coat.

Serve: Transfer the crispy buffalo chicken tenders to a platter, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot with extra buffalo sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce if desired!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 4