Description

Buffalo chicken tenders are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course featuring crispy chicken tenders coated in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for game days, parties, or as a homemade snack. Easily paired with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or celery sticks for added variety.

Ingredients

For the Dish:

– 1¼ pounds chicken tenderloins

– Salt and pepper (to taste)

– ½ cup flour (substitute gluten-free flour for dietary needs)

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 2 eggs

– 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce (substitute cayenne-based hot sauce for variety)

– ¼–½ cup unsalted butter

– 1–2 tablespoons honey (substitute maple syrup or agave for variety)

– 2 cups panko (substitute gluten-free panko if needed)

For Garnish and Serving:

– 4 minced scallions

– Ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or celery sticks (optional sides)

– Neutral oil for frying

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Instructions

Pat chicken tenderloins dry and season with salt and pepper.
Use three shallow dishes: combine flour with garlic powder and black pepper in the first, whisk eggs with 2 tablespoons hot sauce in the second, and mix panko with salt and pepper in the third.
Add about ¼ inch of neutral oil to a wide pot or skillet and preheat on medium-low heat.
Dip each tender into the flour, then egg mixture, and finally panko, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a baking rack.
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add remaining hot sauce and honey, whisking until smooth. Simmer on low heat.
Fry tenders in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate.
Toss fried tenders in warm buffalo sauce in batches. Transfer sauced tenders to a platter, sprinkle with minced scallions, and serve with dipping sauces and celery sticks.

Notes

– Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–5 days. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizer / Main Dish
Method: Frying (or Baking for a healthier option)
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: ~400
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 120mg