Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders (Printable Version)
Golden crispy chicken tenders coated in a tangy sweet-spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for snacks or meals.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Chicken and Marinade
01 -
1.5 pounds chicken tenders or boneless chicken thighs, sliced into strips
02 -
1 large egg
03 -
1 cup buttermilk
04 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
05 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 -
1 teaspoon paprika
07 -
Salt, to taste
→ Buffalo Sauce
08 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 teaspoon paprika
11 -
1 tablespoon honey
12 -
1/2 cup Frank’s buffalo sauce
→ Coating and Frying
13 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
14 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
15 -
1 teaspoon paprika
16 -
Salt, to taste
17 -
2 to 3 cups frying oil (vegetable or peanut), for deep frying
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
If using boneless chicken thighs, slice them into thin strips. Set aside.
02 -
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until smooth. Add chicken strips, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best tenderness.
03 -
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic, paprika, honey, and buffalo sauce. Simmer until the mixture is smooth and glossy. If the sauce separates, briefly blend with a hand blender to emulsify.
04 -
Pour 2 to 3 inches of oil into a deep skillet or fryer and heat to 350°F (175°C), testing temperature with a thermometer for accuracy.
05 -
In a shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute seasoning.
06 -
Remove chicken from marinade and toss directly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to ensure a rough, craggy coating on each piece.
07 -
Fry chicken tenders in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
08 -
While still hot, place fried chicken tenders in a bowl and toss with the prepared buffalo sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor and enhanced tenderness.
02 -
Use a hand blender to re-emulsify the sauce if it separates during cooking.
03 -
Press flour firmly into chicken for a signature crispy texture.