Spice up your dinner routine with these irresistibly crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering dish with just the right kick of heat and a perfect crunch. Dive into the ultimate combination of ease and flavor with this foolproof method.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Bite
- Quick . Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Effortless . Minimal preparation for a no-fuss cooking experience.
- Incredibly Tasty . The spicy buffalo sauce combined with the tender juiciness of the chicken is a match made in heaven.
With the magic of the air fryer, you’ll achieve that desirable crispy coating without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
What Is The Difference Between Chicken Strips And Chicken Tenders?
The terms “chicken strips” and “chicken tenders” often cause some confusion, but they refer to slightly different things:
- Chicken Tenders - These are made from the actual tenderloin part of the chicken breast, which is a specific, elongated muscle situated underneath the breast meat. Chicken tenders are naturally tender and cook quickly because they are a softer, leaner section of the chicken. They are sometimes referred to as “chicken tenderloins” and are considered a prime part of the chicken.
- Chicken Strips - These can be made from either the chicken breast or other parts of the chicken, sliced into long, thin strips. Chicken strips might not always be from the tenderloin part and can vary in texture and flavor depending on which part of the chicken they are cut from. When made from breast meat that is not the tenderloin, they may require a little more culinary effort (like marinating or tenderizing) to ensure they’re not too tough when cooked.
While both are popular for frying and making quick meals like stir-fries or breaded and baked dishes, chicken tenders generally have a reputation for being slightly more premium due to their tenderness and being part of the breast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For The Chicken
- Chicken Tenders- The main protein of the dish.
- Buffalo Sauce- This sauce provides the distinctive tangy, spicy flavor typical of Buffalo chicken.
- All-Purpose Flour- Used to create the initial coating on the chicken tenders.
- Egg- The beaten egg acts as a binder, helping the flour coating adhere to the chicken tenders.
- Garlic Powder- Adds a savory depth to the flour mixture, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the chicken tenders.
- Paprika- Paprika not only adds subtle earthiness and sweetness to the coating but also gives the chicken a vibrant, appealing color.
- Salt- Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and the spices in the flour mixture.
- Black Pepper- Adds a slight heat and sharpness, complementing the other flavors.
- Olive Oil- Helps in crisping up the exterior and prevents the tenders from sticking to the air fryer basket.
For The Sauce
- Hot Sauce- Forms the base of the Buffalo sauce, providing the heat.
- Butter- Adds richness and mellows out the heat of the hot sauce, creating a balanced, smooth sauce.
- Vinegar- Adds a tangy note to the Buffalo sauce, enhancing its complexity.
- Worcestershire Sauce- Introduces an additional layer of savory umami flavor to the sauce, making it more robust.
- Garlic Powder- Complements the heat with a subtle garlic flavor, rounding out the taste of the Buffalo sauce.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Prep the Chicken . Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Make the Flour Mixture . In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip the Tenders . Dip each chicken tender first in the beaten egg, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This double coating will ensure a crispier finish.
- Air Fry . Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray the chicken tenders with olive oil. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the tenders and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce . If making your own sauce, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until well combined. If using store-bought, gently heat it up in a saucepan or in the microwave until warm.
- Toss with Sauce . Once the chicken tenders are cooked and still hot, toss them in the buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Serve . Serve your buffalo chicken tenders hot. They go perfectly with a side of celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
Making delicious Buffalo chicken tenders involves more than just the right ingredients; it’s about technique and a few kitchen tricks to ensure they turn out flavorful and satisfying. Here’s a comprehensive guide to perfecting them:
- Select the Right Cut. Use actual chicken tenders (the tenderloin of the chicken breast) for the best results. They’re naturally tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for a quick and juicy dish.
- Don’t Overcook. Chicken tenders are thin and cook quickly; overcooking will dry them out. Keep an eye on their internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F.
Variations
Buffalo chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Here are some creative variations on the classic:
- BBQ Buffalo Tenders - Mix some BBQ sauce into your Buffalo sauce for a smoky, sweet, and spicy combination.
- Honey Garlic Buffalo Tenders - Add honey and minced garlic to the Buffalo sauce to create a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Teriyaki Buffalo Tenders - Incorporate some teriyaki sauce into the Buffalo sauce for an Asian twist.
What To Eat With Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Buffalo chicken tenders pair wonderfully with various sides and dips. Here are some great options:
- Classic Celery and Carrot Sticks - Provide a crunchy, cool contrast to the heat.
- Coleslaw - Adds a creamy and tangy element to balance the spiciness.
- Sweet Potato Fries - A sweet side that complements the tender’s heat beautifully.
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes - A quick and easy side dish that the whole family will love.
How Long Do They Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispy texture before serving.
Can You Freeze Them?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked and cooled chicken tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen in the air fryer, making them a convenient meal prep option.
More Simple Chicken Recipes
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Firecracker Chicken
- Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
- Keto Sesame Ginger Chicken
- Chicken Korma
- Grilled Chicken Wraps
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Honey Mustard Chicken
- Buffalo Chicken Tacos
- Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders
Buffalo Chicken Tenders | Spicy Chicken Strips
Ingredients
For The Chicken
- ▢ 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins
- ▢ 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 1 Egg
- ▢ 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- ▢ 1 tsp Paprika
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Pepper
- ▢ 2 tbsp Olive Oil
For The Sauce
- ▢ 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot
- ▢ 1/4 cup Butter , melted
- ▢ 1 tsp White vinegar
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Worchestershire Sauce
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken . Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Make the Flour Mixture . In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip the Tenders . Dip each chicken tender first in the beaten egg, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This double coating will ensure a crispier finish.
- Air Fry . Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray the chicken tenders with olive oil. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the tenders and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce . If making your own sauce, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until well combined. If using store-bought, gently heat it up in a saucepan or in the microwave until warm.
- Toss with Sauce . Once the chicken tenders are cooked and still hot, toss them in the buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Serve . Serve your buffalo chicken tenders hot. They go perfectly with a side of celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
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Buffalo Chicken Tenders | Spicy Chicken Strips
Ingredients
For The Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 1 Egg
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
For The Sauce
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot
- 1/4 cup Butter melted
- 1 tsp White vinegar
- 1/4 tsp Worchestershire Sauce
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken . Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Make the Flour Mixture . In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip the Tenders . Dip each chicken tender first in the beaten egg, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This double coating will ensure a crispier finish.
- Air Fry . Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray the chicken tenders with olive oil. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the tenders and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce . If making your own sauce, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until well combined. If using store-bought, gently heat it up in a saucepan or in the microwave until warm.
- Toss with Sauce . Once the chicken tenders are cooked and still hot, toss them in the buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Serve . Serve your buffalo chicken tenders hot. They go perfectly with a side of celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders | Spicy Chicken Strips https://twosleevers.com/buffalo-chicken-tenders/
If you’re craving a taste of the South, prepare yourself for a delightful treat with these Southern-style Hush Puppies! Discover the secrets to crafting these golden, crispy morsels that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Side Dish
- Classic Flavor . These boast a traditional Southern flavor profile with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- Versatile . Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.
- Easy to Make . With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these hush puppies are a breeze to whip up, even for novice cooks.
- Family Favorite . Loved by kids and adults alike, these are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Embrace the flavors of the South with these irresistible hush puppies, perfect for any meal or gathering.
Why Did My Hush Puppies Turn Out Flat?
If your hush puppies didn’t achieve the desired fluffy texture and instead turned out flat, several factors may have contributed to the issue:
- Oil Temperature . Ensure that the oil is heated to the correct temperature before frying them. If the oil is too hot, the outside may cook too quickly, causing them to flatten before the interior has a chance to set.
- Batter Consistency . The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the hot oil. If the batter is too thin or runny, the hush puppies may spread out and become flat during frying. Adjust the consistency by adding more cornmeal or flour as needed.
- Leavening Agent . Baking powder is typically used as a leavening agent in hush puppy batter to help them rise and achieve a fluffy texture. Ensure that your baking powder is fresh and active to achieve optimal results.
- Mixing Technique . Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to gluten development, resulting in dense and flat hush puppies. Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain a light and airy texture.
What Are Hush Puppies Made Of?
Hush puppies are a classic Southern dish made from simple ingredients commonly found in the pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make them:
- Cornmeal - The main ingredient, cornmeal provides the signature texture and flavor. Opt for fine or medium-grind cornmeal for the best results.
- Flour - All-purpose flour helps bind the ingredients together and adds structure to the hush puppies. It also contributes to the crispy exterior when fried.
- Baking Powder - A leavening agent, baking powder helps them rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Salt and Pepper - Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness of the cornmeal.
- Onion - Finely diced onion adds flavor and texture to them. It also lends a subtle sweetness to the batter.
- Egg - Acting as a binder, the egg helps hold the ingredients together and contributes to the structure.
- Milk - Milk adds moisture to the batter and helps create a tender texture. It also helps distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Oil for Frying - Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or peanut oil, for frying until golden brown and crispy.
How To Make Hush Puppies
- Prepare the Batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, diced onion, beaten egg, and milk. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Heat the Oil . In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the frying oil to 350°F over medium-high heat. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for best results.
- Fry the Hush Puppies . Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry the hush puppies for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve . Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, transfer the fried hush puppies to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside your favorite Southern dishes.
Tips And Tricks
Achieving the perfect hush puppies requires attention to detail and proper technique. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure success:
- Consistent Size. To ensure even cooking, aim for uniform-sized bites by using a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the batter.
- Hot Oil. Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F throughout the frying process to achieve a crispy, golden-brown.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan . Fry them in batches, leaving enough space between them to prevent overcrowding and ensure proper circulation of the hot oil.
Variations
While traditional hush puppies are delicious on their own, feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients and flavors:
- Cheese - Add shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for cheesy hush puppies with extra flavor and gooey texture.
- Jalapeños - For a spicy kick, mix diced jalapeños into the batter.
- Bacon - Crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture to them for an indulgent twist.
What To Goes Well With Hush Puppies
Hush puppies, with their golden crispy exterior and soft, savory interior, are a beloved Southern dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and side dishes. Here are some classic accompaniments to enjoy with them:
- Fried Fish - They are often served alongside fried fish, creating a classic combination known as a “fish fry.” The crunchy texture of the fish complements the softness of them perfectly.
- Barbecue - Whether it’s pulled pork , ribs , or brisket , they are a fantastic side dish for barbecue. Their sweet and savory flavor profile adds depth to the smoky, savory flavors of the meat.
- Coleslaw - The crispness of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of hush puppies. The tangy dressing complements the sweetness, creating a well-balanced meal.
How Long Do They Last?
Hush puppies are best enjoyed fresh and crispy but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through before serving.
Can You Freeze Them?
While hush puppies are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for later enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through before serving.
More Spectacular Side Dishes
- Mashed Potatoes
- Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
- Instant Pot Green Beans with Bacon
- Keto Bread
- Ratatouille
Hush Puppies | Easy Hush Puppies Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 cup Cornmeal
- ▢ 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 1 tbsp Baking Powder
- ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- ▢ 1/2 cup Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 Egg
- ▢ 1/2 cup Milk
- ▢ Oil , for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, diced onion, beaten egg, and milk. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Heat the Oil . In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the frying oil to 350°F over medium-high heat. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for best results.
- Fry the Hush Puppies . Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry the hush puppies for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve . Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, transfer the fried hush puppies to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside your favorite Southern dishes.
