Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders: A Beginner’s Guide to Making the Perfect Crunchy, Flavorful Meal

Buffalo chicken tenders are a crowd-pleasing dish that delivers bold flavor with a satisfying crunch. Whether served as a main dish, a snack, or part of a game-day spread, these crispy tenders are always a hit. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to build confidence in the kitchen. By following clear, step-by-step instructions, anyone can achieve restaurant-quality results at home without the need for deep frying.

Print

This recipe focuses on baking rather than frying, offering a healthier alternative while still maintaining that signature crispiness. Using a combination of crushed cornflakes and breadcrumbs ensures a golden, crunchy texture, while a homemade buffalo sauce brings just the right amount of heat and tang. The step-by-step instructions and cooking tips included in this guide will help beginners master the technique of breading, seasoning, and baking chicken to perfection.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

For those new to cooking, starting with a straightforward and rewarding dish like buffalo chicken tenders is a great way to gain confidence in the kitchen. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is ideal for beginners:

• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.
• Easy Cooking Method: Baking the chicken in the oven eliminates the mess and difficulty of frying while still delivering crispy results.
• Balanced Flavor: The spice level can be adjusted based on preference, making this dish customizable for all taste preferences.
• Minimal Equipment: No special kitchen tools are required—just a baking sheet, a wire rack, and a few mixing bowls.

By following these instructions and tips, even those with little cooking experience can create a delicious and impressive dish.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chicken Tenders

• 2 lbs. organic chicken breast, cut into strips (cut lengthwise, or use tenderloins if preferred)
• 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
• 2 teaspoons black pepper, divided
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
• 2 teaspoons onion powder, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried basil, divided
• ¼ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 large organic eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or whole milk)
• ½ cup organic all-purpose flour
• 2 cups organic cornflakes, crushed
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

Buffalo Sauce

• 2 cups buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons raw honey

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

For those with dietary preferences or ingredient restrictions, here are some alternatives:

• Flour Substitute: Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be used.
• Milk Options: Any type of milk, including dairy-free alternatives like oat or soy milk, will work.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch, or use a homemade seasoned breadcrumb mix.
• Buffalo Sauce Adjustments: Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce for a milder flavor or mix in some barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the tenders, ensuring an even crisp.

In a large bowl, add the chicken strips and season with 1 teaspoon each of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, basil, and parsley. Pour in the buffalo sauce and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors. For even better results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Preparing the Coating

In one bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk. In another bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, and the remaining seasonings. Place the flour in a separate shallow dish.

3. Breading the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the flour, ensuring it is lightly coated. Shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly in the cornflake and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the coating adhere. Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

4. Baking the Chicken

Lightly brush or spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness. The tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown.

5. Making the Buffalo Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the buffalo sauce and honey, stirring until fully combined. Bring to a slight boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

6. Coating the Chicken

Once the tenders are baked and crispy, remove them from the oven. Toss them in the buffalo sauce, ensuring they are well coated. For extra crispiness, return the coated tenders to the oven for 5 minutes.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Ensuring Crispy Chicken: Using a wire rack while baking prevents sogginess by allowing heat to circulate evenly. If a wire rack is unavailable, flipping the tenders halfway through baking will help.
• Checking for Doneness: The best way to check if chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. It should register at least 165°F in the thickest part.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: If the buffalo sauce is too spicy, mix it with a bit of melted butter or honey to mellow the heat.
• Making Cleanup Easier: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleaning up simple and prevents sticking.
• Saving Time: To speed up prep time, use store-bought seasoned breadcrumbs instead of crushing cornflakes.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo chicken tenders pair well with a variety of sides and dipping sauces. Here are some serving ideas:

• Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or garlic aioli complement the spicy buffalo flavor.
• Side Dishes: Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for balance.
• Main Course Ideas: These tenders can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a meal. Try serving them in wraps, sandwiches, or over a bed of rice with roasted vegetables.
• Healthy Pairings: For a lighter meal, serve the tenders over a quinoa or mixed greens salad with a drizzle of dressing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If there are leftovers, proper storage will maintain their flavor and texture.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked tenders on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to two months.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Conclusion

Crispy buffalo chicken tenders are a fantastic dish for beginner cooks looking to create a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal at home. The simple preparation, foolproof baking method, and bold taste make this recipe a go-to for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish, a snack, or a party appetizer, these tenders are sure to impress.

Cooking should be enjoyable and rewarding, and this recipe proves that delicious food does not have to be complicated. Try making these buffalo chicken tenders, and share your experience. Cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for your taste. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite.