There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of freshly made chicken tenders. When I first experimented with my air fryer, I was amazed at how effortlessly it turned ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary especially when buffalo sauce is in the mix! The tangy heat combined with the crispy texture made my taste buds dance, and I quickly realized I had discovered a go-to recipe that would elevate any weeknight dinner or game day gathering.
On a particularly hectic evening, I craved the comfort of homemade chicken tenders but dreaded the mess of frying. That’s when my trusty air fryer came to the rescue. By the time I coaxed my family into the kitchen with the mouthwatering scent of these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders, I was already dreaming of their delighted faces as they dug in. The best part? They’re quick, packed with flavor, and, let’s be honest, way healthier than the fast food version!
So if you’re looking for a way to spice up your dinner routine while treating yourself to a bit of crispy delight, join me in making these irresistible chicken tenders that’ll leave you wanting more!
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Crispy texture: Achieving that golden, crunchy exterior without deep frying has never been easier!
Bold flavor: The zesty buffalo sauce infuses every bite, delivering a kicking taste that’s truly addictive.
Quick and easy: With just a prep time of 15 minutes, dinner will be on the table in no time!
Healthier option: Unlike traditional frying, this method cuts down on excess oil, making it a guilt-free pleasure.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or game day snacks, these tenders are sure to impress both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these crispy delights!
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts – cut them into tender-sized strips for the best texture.
- Salt – enhances the flavor of the chicken before cooking.
- Black pepper – adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.
For the Breading
- All-purpose flour – creates a light coating that helps the seasoning stick.
- Paprika – infuses a subtle smokiness to the breading.
- Garlic powder – enhances the savory flavor profile of the tenders.
- Onion powder – provides an extra layer of flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
- Egg – acts as a binding agent to hold the coating onto the chicken.
- Panko breadcrumbs – delivers an extra crunchy exterior that’s hard to resist.
For the Sauce
- Buffalo sauce – the star of the show, bringing that signature tangy heat to the tenders.
- Melted butter – mixes with the buffalo sauce to balance out the heat and add richness—it enhances your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders wonderfully!
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley – chop it finely for a pop of color and freshness.
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing – perfect for dipping and cooling down the spice!
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be one step closer to enjoying a plate of mouthwatering Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders!
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips. Season each piece generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor and ensure deliciousness.
- Set up the breading station: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, beat one egg. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl for coating.
- Bread the chicken: Dip each seasoned chicken strip first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes, ensuring that you achieve a beautifully crispy texture.
- Arrange the tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry the chicken: Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Toss in buffalo sauce: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and buffalo sauce. Once the tenders are done, gently toss them in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately: Plate your crispy tenders and serve them hot with your choice of garnish, like fresh parsley or a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Optional: Serve with celery sticks for a crunchy, refreshing side!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken by breading it up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply follow the breading steps, then place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, just preheat your air fryer and cook the tenders straight from the fridge there’s no need to thaw! This method ensures they remain juicy and flavorful, making sure you get crispy, restaurant-quality tenders with minimal effort.
Variations & Substitutions for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Feel free to switch things up and discover your perfect chicken tender combination!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko to make these tenders suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. The crunch will still shine through beautifully!
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading mix for an extra kick. Just the right amount of heat can elevate these tenders to bold new heights.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh herbs, such as oregano or thyme, into the panko breadcrumbs for a fragrant flavor profile. This little twist will enchant your taste buds!
- Baked Option: If you prefer a lighter option, bake the breaded tenders at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. They’ll still end up crispy, and your kitchen will remain mess-free!
- Different Sauces: Swap the buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce for a tangy twist. Each sauce brings a unique flair that you can tailor to your cravings.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian alternative. Coat the pieces just like the chicken; they’ll soak up flavor beautifully.
- Cheesy Delight: Combine shredded cheese with the panko for a rich and irresistible cheesy crust. Who doesn’t love a good cheesy crunch with their tenders?
- Mild Herb Dressing: Serve with a ranch or herb yogurt dressing for dipping rather than spicy options. It perfectly complements the tenders and keeps things on the milder side.
Helpful Tricks for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Chicken Prep: Ensure chicken strips are uniform in size for even cooking. This prevents some tenders from being undercooked while others are overdone.
- Breading Technique: Apply the flour, egg, and panko in that order without skipping steps. This keeps the coating from falling off during frying, resulting in that desired crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd: When placing the breaded chicken in the air fryer, make sure they aren’t touching. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Buffalo Sauce Balance: Adjust the ratio of melted butter to buffalo sauce to suit your taste. More butter will temper the heat, while less will enhance it for those craving a spicy kick!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Looking to create a delightful spread alongside your flavorful chicken tenders? Let’s explore some perfect pairings!
- Crispy Celery Sticks: These crunchy, refreshing sticks are perfect for cooling down the spicy buffalo sauce while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Creamy Ranch Dressing: A classic dip that balances the heat; its cool, creamy texture is a fantastic complement to the tenders’ bold flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture enhance your meal, providing a beautiful contrast to the savory, spicy tenders.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, juicy corn adds sweetness and a pop of color to your plate truly a summer favorite!
- Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy salad adds a delightful crunch with coolness, acting as a wonderful counterpart to the spice of the chicken.
- Beer or Cider: Pair your tenders with a crisp lager or refreshing hard cider to wash down that spicy goodness; these beverages perfectly complement the dish.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Their soft, buttery goodness acts as a perfect vessel for soaking up any leftover buffalo sauce.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey treats offer a sweet ending to your savory meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Room Temperature: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders can sit out for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated to ensure freshness and safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their crispy texture, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked, breaded tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Reheat cooked tenders in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my tenders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for organic or free-range options if possible. Fresh chicken should have a pink hue without any gray or discolored spots. Also, avoid packages with excessive liquid, as that can indicate older meat.
How do I store leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
After a delightful meal, store any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep their crispiness intact, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore that delicious crunch you love!
Can I freeze cooked Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can! To freeze cooked tenders, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the air fryer, adding about 5-7 extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through.
What should I do if the breading falls off while cooking?
Very! If the breading falls off, make sure to thoroughly coat each strip in flour, egg, and panko in that order, pressing gently to adhere. Ensure the chicken strips are dry before you start. If you’re experiencing consistent issues, consider chilling the breaded tenders for about 20 minutes before cooking they’ll have a better chance of holding onto that delicious coating!
Are there any dietary considerations for these tenders?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing these for someone with allergies, be conscious of the gluten in the flour and panko breadcrumbs. You can easily substitute with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if you’re cooking for kids or individuals who prefer less spice, adjust the buffalo sauce by mixing it with more melted butter for a milder flavor.
Can I make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can! To prepare ahead, bread the chicken tenders and place them on a baking sheet, covering them with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to cook them from frozen if you go that route, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re perfectly done!
Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips. Season each piece generously with salt and black pepper.
- Set up the breading station: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, beat one egg. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
- Air fry the chicken: Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown.
- Toss in buffalo sauce: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and buffalo sauce. Toss the cooked tenders in the sauce.
- Serve immediately: Plate your crispy tenders and serve hot with your choice of garnish.