Are you ready to whip up a tasty treat that will wow your guests? My Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders are the answer! With juicy chicken bathed in a zesty buttermilk marinade, plus a crunchy bread coating, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Easy to make and loaded with flavor, this recipe gives you the perfect mix of crispy and spicy. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Main ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
Bread coating components
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Spices and seasonings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
Buffalo Sauce
– ½ cup buffalo sauce (mild or spicy, based on preference)
To make great Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders, you need fresh, quality ingredients. The chicken tenders are the star here; they give you that juicy bite. Buttermilk is key for a tasty marinade. It tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
For the breading, all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs join forces. The flour helps the coating stick, while panko gives that crispy crunch. You can’t forget the spices! Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper add layers of flavor.
Finally, choose your buffalo sauce. You can go for mild if you want a hint of heat. Or, pick spicy for a kick! The sauce is what makes these tenders pop. Mix and match based on your taste. Each ingredient plays its part in making this dish a hit.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the marinade
Start by mixing the buttermilk with spices. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. This mix adds great flavor to the chicken.
Marinating the chicken
Next, marinate the chicken tenders. Place 1 pound of chicken tenders in the buttermilk mix, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best taste, marinate overnight. This allows the chicken to soak in all the delicious flavors.
Breading the chicken tenders
Now it’s time to set up your breading station. Use two bowls: one for the all-purpose flour and another for 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. The flour helps the breadcrumbs stick better. Grab each chicken tender, coat it in flour first, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat it in panko. Press the breadcrumbs on gently.
Cooking in the air fryer
Before cooking, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. This step is vital for crispy tenders. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Coating with buffalo sauce
After cooking, toss the chicken tenders in a clean bowl with ½ cup of buffalo sauce. Make sure each tender gets coated evenly. Serve them hot, and enjoy the spicy, crispy goodness! For a great presentation, serve with celery and carrot sticks, plus a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips & Tricks
Getting the crispiest texture
To get the crispiest chicken tenders, use cooking spray. This helps create a golden crust. Panko breadcrumbs are key too. They are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them stick. This will give you a crunch that you will love.
Best buffalo sauce choices
You can use mild or spicy buffalo sauce based on your taste. If you want a twist, try adding honey for sweetness. You can also mix in garlic powder for extra flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Each sauce choice can change the whole dish.
Serving suggestions
Serve your chicken tenders with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese. Pair them with crunchy celery and carrot sticks for a fresh touch. Drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top for those who love spice. This adds color and flavor to the plate. Try these ideas to make your meal even better.
Variations
Alternative proteins
You can swap chicken tenders for chicken breasts. Cut them into strips for even cooking. If you want something different, try turkey or pork. Both work well and taste great with buffalo sauce.
Gluten-free options
If you need a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. They will replace the all-purpose flour and panko. Check labels to ensure that all your ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal.
Flavor variations
You can change the spices to create new flavors. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you like a sweeter taste, mix in honey with the buffalo sauce. You can even try different sauces like BBQ or teriyaki for a fun twist.
Storage Info
How to store leftovers
Store your leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container. Make sure they are cool before sealing. Place them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating tips
To reheat, use your air fryer for the best results. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This helps maintain the crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tenders soggy.
Freezing guidance
To freeze, let the cooked chicken tenders cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the air fryer for that perfect crunch.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken tenders?
You should marinate the chicken tenders for at least 1 hour. If you want more flavor, marinate them overnight. This time allows the spices to soak in, making the chicken tender and tasty.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. However, you must adjust the cooking time. Cook them for about 15-18 minutes at 400°F. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What dipping sauces pair well with buffalo chicken tenders?
Many sauces go well with buffalo chicken tenders. Here are some favorites:
– Ranch dressing
– Blue cheese dressing
– Honey mustard
– BBQ sauce
These sauces balance spicy flavors and add creamy or sweet notes.
Can I air fry the chicken tenders without breading?
Yes, you can air fry chicken tenders without breading. Simply marinate the chicken as you normally would. Then, place the marinated chicken directly in the air fryer. Cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
You now have all you need to make delicious buffalo chicken tenders. Start with juicy chicken marinated in buttermilk and spices. Then, coat them in a crunchy mix of flour and panko before air frying. Don’t forget to toss them in your favorite buffalo sauce for the perfect flavor. Experiment with different proteins and spices to find what you love best. Remember to store any extras properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy each bite of your tasty creation!
