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Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Spicy & Easy!

  • Author: shareylady
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are perfectly golden and incredibly crispy, satisfying your buffalo chicken cravings without the mess of deep frying. Enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite, ideal for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk (or water)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • Cooking oil spray (high-heat, like avocado or canola oil)
  • Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, carrot sticks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting your chicken tenderloins thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a critical step for achieving maximum crispiness. Set aside.
  2. Set Up Dredging Stations: You’ll need three shallow dishes or bowls for your breading assembly line. In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. The third dish will be for the final dredging, which will be the flour mixture again for an extra crispy coating.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Working with one chicken tender at a time, first dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, return it to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing gently to ensure it's fully coated. Place the breaded tender on a clean plate or wire rack while you repeat with the remaining chicken.
  4. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Air Fry in Batches: Lightly spray the bottom of your air fryer basket with cooking oil spray. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking oil spray.
  6. Cook and Flip: Air fry the chicken tenders for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Once cooked, transfer the hot chicken tenders to a large bowl. Pour your prepared or store-bought buffalo sauce over the tenders. Toss gently with tongs until each tender is evenly coated.
  8. Serve Immediately: Arrange your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders on a serving platter and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces (ranch or blue cheese) and a side of crisp celery and carrot sticks.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tender
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Don't overcrowd the basket to avoid steaming. Pat the chicken dry for better breading adherence. A light spray of oil helps achieve a golden-brown color. Adjust the spice level of the buffalo sauce to your preference.

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Find it online: https://shareylady.com/air-fryer-buffalo-chicken-tenders-crispy-spicy-easy/