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Crispy baked buffalo chicken tenders are not just a meal; they are an experience that tantalizes the taste buds with a perfect balance of heat and crunch. These tenders combine the rich, spicy flavor of buffalo sauce with a satisfyingly crispy exterior, making them a favorite among chicken lovers and snack enthusiasts alike. Their rising popularity in American cuisine can be attributed to the universal appeal of buffalo chicken dishes, which have become a staple at parties, game day gatherings, and casual weeknight dinners.

Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate dish for any occasion: Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders! These tenders marry a flavorful spicy buffalo sauce with a satisfying crunch, making them a hit at parties or casual dinners. Baked instead of fried, they offer a healthier option without sacrificing taste. With a simple marinade and a clever breading technique, you can achieve tender, juicy chicken with an irresistible crispy exterior. Dive into this delicious recipe and impress your friends and family!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

Olive oil spray

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders and coat them well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight, if possible) to tenderize and flavor the chicken.

    Prep the Breading Station: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, the panko breadcrumbs in another, and removing the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.

      Bread the Chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it back into the buttermilk briefly, then coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

        Bake the Tenders: Place the breaded chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil to promote crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

          Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Once the tenders are done baking, remove them from the oven and place them in a clean bowl. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the hot tenders and toss until evenly coated.

            Serve: Plate the crispy buffalo chicken tenders and drizzle a little extra buffalo sauce on top. Serve with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and enjoy!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 1 hour 35 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings