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Buffalo Chicken Tenders

This buffalo chicken tender recipe is crispy, juicy, and loaded with bold, spicy flavor. It is coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust, baked until golden, then tossed in a buttery buffalo sauce for the perfect balance of heat and richness. This recipe is an easy high-protein dinner that's ready in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds chicken tenders
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  3. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
  4. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Lightly coat the chicken tenders with olive oil.
  6. Dip each tender into the egg mixture, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks.
  7. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. In a large bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce and melted butter.
  10. Add the cooked chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
  11. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Toss the chicken in the buffalo sauce just before serving to keep the coating crispy.
  • Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce for a milder or spicier flavor.
  • Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer to help restore the crispy coating.