There’s a certain joy that comes from the first bite of crispy, spicy chicken tenders, isn’t there? I remember the excitement of game nights with friends, when the table would be laden with all the snacks, but the star of the show was always those succulent Buffalo chicken tenders. Now, I can whip up that same flavor in my own kitchen without the guilt or hassle, thanks to my air fryer.
Let me introduce you to my easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders! These beauties are not only quick to make ready in just 15 minutes but also cater to a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re watching carbs, following a low-calorie plan, or looking for gluten-free options, these tenders check all the boxes. It’s time to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your family or guests with a dish that offers both incredible flavor and a satisfying crunch all while keeping things downright healthy!
Why Are Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders an Essential Recipe?
Quick and Convenient: Easily whip these tenders up in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy Twist: Enjoy the classic flavors without the guilt; they’re low-carb, keto, and gluten-free!
Bold Flavor: The perfect blend of spices and buffalo sauce creates a mouthwatering kick that satisfies every craving.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them on salads, in wraps, or with your favorite dipping sauce for endless meal possibilities!
Family-Friendly: These crowd-pleasers will impress everyone at the table, making them a hit for both kids and adults.
Less Mess: Say goodbye to greasy frying and hello to a quick clean-up with an air fryer that leaves no messy oil splatters!
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Tenders
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The primary protein for juicy, tender bites; chicken breasts can serve as a substitute.
- Olive Oil (1 TBS) – Adds moisture and flavor; avocado oil is a great alternative for a higher smoke point.
- Paprika (1 tsp) – Introduces a smoky flavor; feel free to use smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances savory notes in the dish; fresh minced garlic can be added (quantity to taste).
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor; finely chopped onion can take its place if you prefer.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for bringing out all the flavors; adjust to meet your dietary needs.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds a little heat; you can omit for a milder version.
- Oregano (½ tsp) – Infuses herbal notes; Italian seasoning can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
For Coating and Flavor
- Oil Spray – Helps prevent sticking; choose any non-stick cooking spray for easy air frying.
- Buffalo Wing Sauce (⅓ cup) – Provides that signature bold flavor; don’t hold back on the sauce! Try renowned brands like Frank’s Red Hot or Sweet Baby Ray’s.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Adds a fresh touch and color; optional if you don’t have it on hand.
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are bound to become a family favorite, harmonizing healthiness with taste like never before!
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy texture on your chicken tenders.
- Combine the chicken tenderloins, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a large bowl. Toss well until each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful blend.
- Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should appear golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Brush the buffalo sauce generously over both sides of the cooked tenders. This is where the spicy magic happens—don’t be shy!
- Air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes to caramelize the sauce. You’re looking for a slightly sticky, vibrant coating.
- Remove the tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for that vibrant splash of color!
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Every bite of these tenders brings a delightful crunch and a punch of flavor, making it easy to create a feast your family will love.
- Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing: This creamy dip perfectly balances the spice of the tenders, adding a cool contrast that’s addictive.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness compliments the spicy buffalo flavor beautifully, providing a satisfying crunch as well.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant medley of greens and veggies adds freshness to your meal, helping to lighten the dish with each crisp bite.
- Ranch Dressing: A crowd favorite, ranch adds a savory touch that pairs seamlessly with the tenders. Dip, drizzle, or serve it on the side!
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and texture, a quinoa salad with chopped veggies offers a nutritious side that rounds out the meal wonderfully.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of the corn pairs excellently with the spiciness of the tenders, giving a beautiful summer feel to your plate.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade balances the heat of the tenders, providing a cool, thirst-quenching contrast.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a creamy and delicious note with this rich dessert that remains healthy and indulgent!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Perfect Cooking Time: Aim for 10-12 minutes in the air fryer, flipping halfway to ensure each tender gets that delicious golden crunch without undercooking.
- Check Internal Temp: Use a meat thermometer to verify each tender reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety; this also guarantees juicy, properly cooked chicken.
- Uniform Size: Ensure the chicken tenders are similar in size to promote even cooking; pound thicker pieces down to match for the best results.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Place the tenders in a single layer without crowding; this allows hot air to circulate freely for that perfect crispy texture.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to switch up the spices or sauces; try adding Cajun seasoning for a twist or swap the buffalo sauce for barbecue for a different flavor profile!
- Rest Before Serving: Let the tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture and enhances the overall eating experience with your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also use the oven if you prefer, but the air fryer is ideal!
- Avoid Room Temperature: Do not leave the chicken tenders out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness. Always refrigerate or freeze promptly after cooling.
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders Variations
There’s nothing like the satisfaction of customizing a recipe to perfectly suit your taste and dietary needs. Let’s explore some delightful twists and substitutions that will keep your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders exciting!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crispy coating that aligns with your dietary preferences.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick of heat. Get ready for a taste explosion!
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a fragrant upgrade that adds warmth to every bite.
- Honey BBQ Swap: Replace buffalo sauce with homemade honey BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor which is perfect for those who prefer milder options.
- Lime Zest: Incorporate lime zest into the chicken mixture for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the spices.
- Nutty Flavor: Crush up some almonds or pecans, and add them to your breadcrumb coating for additional texture and a nutty surprise.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the tenders before air frying for a savory, cheesy twist that melts deliciously.
- Asian-Inspired: Substitute buffalo sauce with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to create sweet and savory tenders with an Asian flair.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas as you bring your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders to life!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken tenderloins in olive oil and spices up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to infuse deeply. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, follow the cooking instructions: preheat your air fryer, arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer, and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drizzle the buffalo sauce and air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes. This preparation method lets you enjoy delicious, crispy tenders with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins, as they provide juicy and tender bites. If you can’t find tenderloins, chicken breasts can be a great substitute; just be sure to cut them into similar-sized strips for even cooking.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them tasty, I often recommend placing a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture, helping maintain their crispiness.
Can I freeze Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
Yes! To freeze, place the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid sticking, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container after they’re frozen solid. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore that crunchy texture.
What if my chicken tenders are not cooking evenly?
Very common! Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can block airflow and lead to uneven cooking. If you have thicker pieces, pound them down to ensure they cook evenly. Additionally, always flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time for perfect crispiness all around.
Are Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! As long as you use a gluten-free buffalo sauce, these tenders are perfect for gluten-free diets. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the buffalo sauce?
You can easily customize the heat level! If you prefer milder flavors, mix the buffalo sauce with a bit of honey or BBQ sauce to tone it down. For those who like it hot, try adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to intensify the flavor!
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders That Are Juicy and Guilt-Free
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Combine the chicken tenderloins, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a large bowl. Toss well until each piece is coated.
- Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brush the buffalo sauce generously over both sides of the cooked tenders.
- Air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Remove the tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.