Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate game-day snack: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders! These crispy, golden delights are not only packed with flavor but are also a healthier alternative to traditional frying. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these mouthwatering tenders that are perfect for parties, movie nights, or even a quick dinner. With a spicy buffalo sauce coating that will leave you craving more, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of chicken tenders, 1 cup of buffalo sauce, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of flour, 1 beaten egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes while you prepare the chicken tenders.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the egg until well mixed. This will be used to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs based on your preference.
- Take each chicken tender and first coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Finally, roll the chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat this process for all chicken tenders.
- Once all tenders are coated, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes. After 5 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the tenders for even cooking.
- While the chicken is cooking, heat the buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through. You can add a bit of butter or honey to the sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Once the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), remove them from the air fryer.
- Immediately toss the hot chicken tenders in the warmed buffalo sauce until they are fully coated.
- Serve the buffalo chicken tenders hot with your choice of dipping sauces, celery sticks, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can coat the chicken tenders in breadcrumbs and refrigerate them for up to an hour before cooking. This helps the coating stick better during the air frying process.
- Don’t Overcrowd: When placing the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. This ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect crispiness.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, consider mixing a little butter or honey into the buffalo sauce before tossing the chicken tenders. This will balance the heat and add a touch of sweetness.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve with Style: Pair your buffalo chicken tenders with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing, and don’t forget the celery sticks for that classic touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
