Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients for Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Preparation steps for coating the chicken tenders
- Baking instructions for the buffalo chicken tenders
- Making the buffalo sauce for the chicken tenders
- Serving suggestions for the crispy baked buffalo chicken tenders
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders
When making Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders, the key lies in the ingredients used to achieve that perfect balance of crunch and flavor. Here are the essential ingredients you will need:
1. Chicken tenders: These are the star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender bite.
2. All-purpose flour: Coating the chicken tenders in flour helps create a crispy outer layer.
3. Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the binder for the breading mixture.
4. Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are larger and create a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
5. Butter: Used in the buffalo sauce to add richness and flavor.
6. Hot sauce: A key component for the classic buffalo flavor, choose your favorite hot sauce to adjust the heat level.
7. Seasonings: Including garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Preparation steps for coating the chicken tenders
To begin coating the chicken tenders, you will need three separate bowls to set up your breading station. In the first bowl, combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. This seasoned flour mixture will help the other ingredients adhere to the chicken.
In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and a splash of hot sauce. The eggs will act as a binder for the breading, and the hot sauce will give the tenders that classic buffalo chicken flavor.
In the third bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a bit more garlic powder for added crunch and flavor. The panko breadcrumbs will create a crispy coating on the chicken tenders when baked.
Now, take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to help them stick.
Baking instructions for the buffalo chicken tenders
To bake the buffalo chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. This will help them crisp up evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter and hot sauce to create the buffalo sauce. Brush the sauce generously over the chicken tenders, making sure to coat them completely. You can also dip each tender in the sauce for more flavor.
Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy. To ensure they are fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
Once they are done, remove the buffalo chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce and sides!
Making the buffalo sauce for the chicken tenders
To make the buffalo sauce for the chicken tenders, you will need a combination of hot sauce, melted butter, and seasonings. The key to a good buffalo sauce is finding the right balance between spicy and buttery flavors.
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add in the hot sauce of your choice. Frank’s RedHot Original is a popular option for buffalo sauce.
You can adjust the amount of hot sauce depending on your preferred level of spiciness. For extra flavor, consider adding in some garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Stir the mixture well to ensure that the butter and hot sauce are fully combined. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the buffalo sauce is ready, you can either drizzle it over the baked chicken tenders or toss the tenders in the sauce for a more coated finish.
Serving suggestions for the crispy baked buffalo chicken tenders
After baking the delicious buffalo chicken tenders to crispy perfection, there are various serving suggestions to elevate the dish further:
1. Pair the chicken tenders with a side of cool and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
2. Serve the tenders on a bed of crisp lettuce with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices to create a refreshing salad.
3. Place the buffalo chicken tenders on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a tasty buffalo chicken sandwich.
4. For a party appetizer, skewer the chicken tenders with celery and carrot sticks to create buffalo chicken skewers.
5. Enjoy the tenders with a side of crispy french fries or sweet potato fries for a classic pairing.
These serving suggestions can add variety and flavor to your crispy baked buffalo chicken tenders, making them a versatile and satisfying meal option for any occasion.
Conclusion
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