Chicken & Turkey

Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Name: Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breast tenders; 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch; 1 tsp (5g) paprika; 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper; 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk; 1/4 cup (60ml) hot sauce; 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 eggs; 1 cup (120g) panko breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste

By Tyler Brooks · June 18, 2026 · Chicken & Turkey

Prep20 min

Cook20 min

Total40 min

Serves4

Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders — Crispy baked buffalo chicken tenders

I still remember the first time I had buffalo chicken tenders - it was at a sports bar with friends, and we were all instantly hooked. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and crispy, juicy chicken was absolute perfection. But as I started cooking more at home, I realized that most buffalo chicken tender recipes were either deep-fried or relied on store-bought sauces. I wanted to create a recipe that was not only delicious but also healthier and easier to make. That's how my baked buffalo chicken tenders recipe was born.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves spicy food and is looking for a protein-forward meal that's easy to make. The best part is that it's incredibly versatile - you can serve it as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course with your favorite sides. Whether you're a fan of buffalo wings or just looking for a new chicken recipe to try, this one is sure to become a favorite.

One of the things that sets this recipe apart is the use of a quick wet brine to lock in moisture and flavor. This step may seem extra, but trust me, it makes all the difference in the world. The brine helps to keep the chicken tender and juicy, even after baking, and it adds a depth of flavor that's hard to achieve with just seasoning alone. Plus, it's incredibly easy to do - just mix together some buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices, and let the chicken marinate for a few minutes.

Another key component of this recipe is the buffalo sauce. I know some people might be tempted to use store-bought sauce, but I highly recommend making your own. It's surprisingly easy to do, and the flavor is so much better than anything you can buy in a bottle. Plus, you can customize the level of heat to your liking, which is a major bonus for those who like a little extra spice in their lives.

Overall, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves buffalo chicken tenders. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The baked buffalo chicken tenders are perfect for a quick and healthy dinner or snack.
The recipe is highly customizable, so you can adjust the level of heat and flavor to your liking.
The chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser.
The recipe is great for meal prep, as you can make a large batch of chicken tenders and store them in the fridge or freezer for later.
The buffalo sauce is made from scratch, so you can avoid any unwanted additives or preservatives.
The recipe is perfect for a party or gathering, as it's easy to make in large quantities and serves a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great baked buffalo chicken tenders is to use a combination of techniques that lock in moisture and flavor. First, the quick wet brine helps to tenderize the chicken and add depth of flavor. Then, the buffalo sauce adds a spicy, tangy flavor that's balanced by the richness of the butter and the brightness of the vinegar. Finally, baking the chicken in the oven helps to crisp up the exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender.

Another important factor is the use of the right type of chicken. I recommend using chicken breast tenders or strips, as they are leaner and will stay moist during the baking process. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may be slightly more prone to drying out.

The type of flour used for coating the chicken is also crucial. I like to use a combination of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and spices to create a crispy, well-seasoned coating that complements the flavors of the buffalo sauce. This coating helps to protect the chicken from drying out and adds texture to the finished dish.

Lastly, the baking temperature and time are critical to achieving the perfect level of crispiness and doneness. I recommend baking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including chicken breast tenders, flour, cornstarch, spices, buttermilk, hot sauce, and butter. You may already have some of these ingredients in your pantry, such as flour, cornstarch, and spices. If not, they're easy to find at your local grocery store. One tip is to look for high-quality hot sauce that's made with real ingredients and has a good balance of heat and flavor.

When it comes to the chicken, I recommend using fresh and never frozen chicken breast tenders. This will ensure that the chicken is tender and juicy, and has the best flavor. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may be slightly more prone to drying out.

1 lb (450g) chicken breast tendersFresh and never frozen chicken breast tenders are best for this recipe. They should be about 1-2 inches wide and 3-4 inches long.
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is a good all-around choice for this recipe, but you can also use whole wheat flour or a combination of the two if you prefer.
1/2 cup (60g) cornstarchCornstarch helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken tenders. You can also use potato starch or tapioca flour as a substitute.
1 tsp (5g) paprikaPaprika adds a smoky flavor to the chicken tenders. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
1 tsp (5g) garlic powderGarlic powder adds a savory flavor to the chicken tenders. You can also use onion powder or dried herbs like thyme or oregano if you prefer.
1 tsp (5g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the chicken tenders and helps to bring out the other seasonings. You can use kosher salt or sea salt if you prefer.
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp, peppery flavor to the chicken tenders. You can use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
1 cup (240ml) buttermilkButtermilk helps to tenderize the chicken tenders and add moisture. You can also use regular milk or a non-dairy milk alternative if you prefer.
1/4 cup (60ml) hot sauceHot sauce adds a spicy kick to the chicken tenders. You can use your favorite brand or type of hot sauce, or make your own using hot peppers and vinegar.
2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, meltedMelted butter helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken tenders and adds flavor. You can also use olive oil or avocado oil if you prefer.
2 eggsEggs help to bind the coating to the chicken tenders and add moisture. You can use large or extra-large eggs, depending on your preference.
1 cup (120g) panko breadcrumbsPanko breadcrumbs help to create a crispy coating on the chicken tenders. You can also use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are used to season the chicken tenders and bring out the other flavors. You can adjust the amount to taste, depending on your preference.

Ingredients for Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsCutting boardKnifeBaking sheet lined with parchment paperOven thermometer

How to Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3
Pour the buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
4
Add the hot sauce to the buttermilk and whisk until smooth.
5
Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
6
Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
7
Dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
8
Dip the floured chicken tenders in the beaten eggs, making sure they are fully coated.
9
Roll the egg-coated chicken tenders in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the chicken to help them stick. Place the coated chicken tenders on a plate or tray.
10
Drizzle the melted butter over the coated chicken tenders, making sure they are evenly coated.
11
Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each tender.
12
Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
13
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the chicken tenders to steam instead of crisp up.
If you want an extra crispy coating, you can try broiling the chicken tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.
To make the buffalo sauce from scratch, simply mix together 1/2 cup (120ml) hot sauce and 1/4 cup (60ml) melted butter in a small bowl. You can adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less hot sauce.
You can also add some diced onions or bell peppers to the baking sheet with the chicken tenders for added flavor and nutrition.
To make this recipe more substantial, you can serve the chicken tenders with some sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken tenders up to the point of baking, then refrigerate or freeze them until you're ready to cook. Simply bake them in the oven when you're ready to serve.
To freeze the chicken tenders, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until they're frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, simply bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until they're cooked through and crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not marinating the chicken tenders long enough, which can result in dry and flavorless chicken.
Overcrowding the baking sheet, which can cause the chicken tenders to steam instead of crisp up.
Not using enough flour or breadcrumbs, which can result in a coating that doesn't stick well to the chicken.
Not baking the chicken tenders at a high enough temperature, which can result in a coating that's not crispy.
Not letting the chicken tenders rest long enough before serving, which can result in a coating that's not crispy and a texture that's not tender.
Not using the right type of flour or breadcrumbs, which can affect the texture and flavor of the coating.

Variations and Substitutions

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk alternative and use vegan butter or oil.
To add some heat to this recipe, you can add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the buttermilk mixture or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the chicken tenders before baking.
To make this recipe more substantial, you can serve the chicken tenders with some sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
To make this recipe ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken tenders up to the point of baking, then refrigerate or freeze them until you're ready to cook.
To make this recipe in a slow cooker, you can cook the chicken tenders on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, or until they're cooked through and crispy.
To make this recipe in an air fryer, you can cook the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they're cooked through and crispy.

What to Serve With Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

The baked buffalo chicken tenders are perfect as a snack or appetizer, and they're also great as a main course with some sides. You can serve them with some celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic buffalo chicken snack, or with some mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a more substantial meal.

Some other ideas for serving the baked buffalo chicken tenders include:

Celery sticks with blue cheese dressingMashed potatoesSteamed broccoliRoasted vegetablesSaladSandwiches

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store the baked buffalo chicken tenders, you can place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat when you're ready to serve.

To reheat the chicken tenders, you can simply bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until they're crispy and hot. You can also reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overcook them.

Some tips for storing and reheating the baked buffalo chicken tenders include:

Make sure to let the chicken tenders cool completely before storing them, as this will help to prevent moisture from building up and making the coating soggy.

Use an airtight container to store the chicken tenders, as this will help to keep them fresh and prevent moisture from getting in.

If you're reheating the chicken tenders in the oven, make sure to check on them frequently to prevent overcooking.

You can also add some fresh herbs or spices to the chicken tenders when you reheat them, to give them an extra boost of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of hot sauce should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of hot sauce you like, but Frank's RedHot or Sriracha are good choices. You can also make your own hot sauce using hot peppers and vinegar if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk alternative and using vegan butter or oil.

How long can I store the baked buffalo chicken tenders?

You can store the baked buffalo chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I reheat the baked buffalo chicken tenders in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat the baked buffalo chicken tenders in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them. It's best to reheat them in short increments, checking on them frequently until they're hot and crispy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the chicken tenders up to the point of baking, then refrigerating or freezing them until you're ready to cook.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast, but keep in mind that they may be slightly more prone to drying out.

Can I add some extra spices or herbs to the coating?

Yes, you can add some extra spices or herbs to the coating to give it more flavor. Some good options include paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card