Ultimate Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Spicy & Easy Homemade Recipe
Get ready to ditch the greasy takeout and elevate your snack game with these incredibly delicious Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders. If you’re a fan of that classic spicy, tangy buffalo flavor combined with perfectly crispy chicken, then this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Forget deep-frying; your air fryer does all the heavy lifting, delivering tenders that are not only healthier but also boast an unbeatable crunch without excessive oil. This simple, crave-able recipe brings restaurant-quality buffalo chicken straight to your kitchen, making it ideal for everything from game day gatherings to a fun, fuss-free weeknight dinner. Plus, we’ve included fantastic options for those following keto, low carb, and gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy this spicy sensation!
There’s something uniquely satisfying about food that has just the right amount of kick. Not so spicy that your eyes water, but enough to create a warm, pleasant burn that makes you want more with every bite. These air fryer buffalo chicken tenders strike that perfect balance, making them truly irresistible. They’re incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to prepare, and require just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for the ultimate game-day snack, or simply craving a spicy treat, these buffalo chicken strips cooked in the air fryer are the perfect solution. Serve them up with a generous side of creamy blue cheese or ranch dip and some crisp celery ribs for a complete experience. And for bonus points? Pair them with an ice-cold beer – trust us, it’s a match made in heaven!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Crafting these delectable chicken tenders doesn’t require a long list of obscure ingredients. In fact, you likely have most of these staples in your pantry right now! Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic dish:
- Chicken Tenders: These are usually sold pre-cut, making them incredibly convenient. However, if you can’t find tenders, don’t fret! Simply slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform strips, about 1 inch thick, to achieve a similar result. Both options work perfectly and yield tender, juicy chicken.
- Mayonnaise, Dijon Mustard, and Garlic Powder: This trio forms a crucial coating for your chicken. Far from a traditional egg wash, this mayonnaise mixture acts as a flavorful binder, ensuring the breading adheres beautifully to the chicken. It also helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking and adds an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Panko Crumbs: For that signature extra-crispy texture, Panko breadcrumbs are truly unmatched. Their flaky, airy structure crisps up wonderfully in the air fryer, providing a delightful crunch that regular breadcrumbs simply can’t replicate. This is key to achieving that perfect fried chicken texture without the oil.
- Parmesan Cheese: A wonderful addition to the breading, parmesan cheese melts slightly and adds a rich, salty, umami depth of flavor that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly. You can use either finely grated shelf-stable parmesan or freshly shredded parmesan – both will contribute to the amazing taste and a golden-brown finish.
- Buffalo Sauce: While you can certainly use your favorite store-bought brand, our homemade buffalo sauce recipe takes this dish to the next level. It’s a classic blend of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, a touch of garlic powder, and a pinch of ground cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This homemade version allows you to control the spice level and freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma and taste.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these buffalo chicken tenders is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. Following these instructions will ensure crispy, flavorful results every time.
Preparing and Marinating the Chicken
Before you dive into cooking, let’s get your chicken tenders perfectly prepped and seasoned. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Stir these ingredients together until you have a smooth, well-mixed coating. Add your chicken tenders (or uniformly sliced chicken breast) to the bowl, tossing them thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This mayonnaise mixture not only adds a foundational layer of flavor but also acts as a fantastic adhesive for your breading, ensuring maximum crispiness. For optimal flavor infusion, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the chicken “marinade” for at least 5 minutes. You can even prepare this step up to 8 hours in advance, storing the covered bowl in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your tenders will be!
Crafting the Perfect Homemade Buffalo Sauce
While your chicken is marinating, it’s the perfect time to whip up your vibrant buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the cayenne pepper hot sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot), butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and ground cayenne pepper. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to help the butter melt and integrate with the other ingredients as the sauce warms. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a high simmer. Allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly to a luscious consistency. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a rich, perfectly balanced buffalo sauce.
Breading the Chicken Tenders for Maximum Crispiness
Now it’s time to give your chicken tenders their irresistible crunchy exterior:
- In a separate, shallow container or a wide bowl, combine your panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are well integrated.
- Using a fork or a pair of tongs, take each mayonnaise-coated chicken tender and dredge both sides generously in the panko breadcrumb mixture. It’s crucial to press the crumbs firmly into the chicken with your hands to ensure maximum coverage and adhesion. This firm press helps create a robust crust that will become wonderfully crispy in the air fryer.
- As each tender is fully coated, place it on a rimmed baking sheet fitted with a wire rack. If you don’t have a wire rack, a parchment-lined baking sheet or platter will also work, though a rack promotes better air circulation for crispier results. Repeat this process with all the remaining chicken tenders.
- Finally, lightly spray the coated chicken tenders with cooking spray (an avocado oil spray works great like this one). Be sure to flip them over and spray the other side as well. This step is essential as the oil helps the breading turn golden brown and achieve that desired crispiness in the air fryer.
Air Frying Your Crispy Chicken Tenders
The air fryer is your secret weapon for perfectly crispy chicken with minimal oil:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 3 minutes, or according to your manufacturer’s specific instructions. Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature for immediate crisping.
- Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the basket or tray of your preheated air fryer. It is absolutely vital to avoid overcrowding the basket. Leave plenty of space between each strip to allow the hot air to circulate freely. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of crisping it, leading to soggy results. If your air fryer is smaller, it’s best to cook in multiple batches.
- Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for approximately 6-9 minutes, flipping them halfway through (around the 3-4 minute mark). This ensures even cooking and browning on both sides.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thickest part of the chicken should reach a minimum of 165°F (74°C) to be safely cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the crispy chicken tenders from the air fryer and set them aside. Repeat the cooking process with any remaining batches until all your tenders are perfectly golden and cooked through.
Coating and “Baking On” the Buffalo Sauce
The final step is where the magic happens – transforming your crispy tenders into irresistible buffalo chicken:
- Using a pair of tongs, individually coat each of your freshly air-fried chicken tenders in the warm homemade buffalo sauce. Ensure each piece is thoroughly covered for maximum flavor.
- Once coated, you have two options: either pull the tender out of the sauce and add it to a clean wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet to allow any excess sauce to drain off, or lightly tap the tongs to remove the heaviest excess sauce and place it directly back into the air fryer basket.
- Repeat this process with all the remaining chicken tenders until they are all beautifully coated in the tangy, spicy sauce.
- Return the coated tenders to the air fryer. You might need to do this in batches again to prevent overcrowding. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to “bake on” the sauce. This quick final air-fry step helps the sauce adhere to the chicken, creating a slightly glazed finish and ensuring the flavors are perfectly set.
Serve your hot, spicy, and crispy buffalo chicken tenders immediately with a side of creamy blue cheese dressing or our delightful homemade ranch dip. Don’t forget some crisp celery ribs to complete this classic pairing!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Tenders
These versatile buffalo chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, whether you’re aiming for a casual snack spread or a more substantial meal. Here are some of our favorite accompaniments:
- Blue Cheese Dressing: The classic pairing! Its tangy, rich flavor perfectly complements the heat of the buffalo sauce.
- Ranch Dressing or Dip: A creamy, herbaceous alternative to blue cheese, offering a cooling contrast to the spice.
- Celery Ribs: Crisp and refreshing, they provide a cool crunch that balances the rich chicken and spicy sauce.
- Crudités: A platter of fresh raw vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips offers a healthy and refreshing counterpoint.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The subtle sweetness and crispy texture of sweet potato fries are a fantastic match.
- Loaded Baked Potato: A hearty and comforting side, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- French Fries: You can’t go wrong with classic crispy fries for a true pub-food experience.
- Jalapeno Poppers: For those who love extra heat, these make for a thrilling spicy combo.
- Nachos: Create a full spread of appetizers by serving your tenders alongside a plate of loaded nachos.
- Chips and Salsa: A simple yet satisfying pairing for a casual gathering.
Delicious Variations for Your Buffalo Chicken Tenders
While the classic breaded air fryer buffalo chicken tenders are phenomenal, this recipe is also incredibly adaptable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs:
- No Breading (Naked Buffalo Tenders): For a lighter, even quicker version, simply omit the breading ingredients and the mayonnaise coating. Toss the chicken tenders directly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook them in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes (flipping halfway), or until cooked through to 165°F. Then, dredge them in the prepared buffalo sauce and return to the air fryer for just 1-2 minutes to bake on the sauce. This is a great option for a truly minimalist approach.
- Buffalo Chicken Bites: Transform your tenders into crowd-pleasing bites by cutting the chicken tenders or breasts into 1-inch, bite-sized pieces before proceeding with the recipe. Follow all the breading and cooking steps as directed, but significantly reduce the air frying time to 4-6 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. These are fantastic as appetizers or to toss into salads.
- Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Elevate your meal by turning these tenders into a hearty sandwich. Place 2-3 hot buffalo tenders onto a soft brioche bun or a sturdy Kaiser roll. Spread your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing on the bun, and add fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, thinly sliced pickles, and ripe tomato slices. It’s a gourmet sandwich experience made simple!
- Keto, Low Carb, and Gluten-Free Options: Easily make this recipe compliant with specific dietary needs by substituting the panko breadcrumbs. For a fantastic keto, low carb, and gluten-free breading, use ¾ cup of almond flour combined with an additional ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese in place of the panko. The process remains the same, delivering deliciously crispy tenders that fit your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
The cooking time for chicken tenders in an air fryer can vary depending on their thickness and your specific air fryer model. Generally, at 400°F (200°C), chicken tenders will take anywhere from 6 to 12 minutes to cook through. For the safest and best results, it’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of all chicken pieces reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
It is highly recommended not to stack chicken tenders in an air fryer. Stacking them significantly reduces airflow around the chicken, which is essential for achieving that desirable crispy texture. When tenders are stacked, they tend to steam rather than crisp, leading to a less satisfying result. For optimal crispiness and even cooking, it’s best to arrange them in a single layer with space in between, cooking in batches if necessary.
There are a few easy ways to thicken buffalo sauce. One common method is to create a cornstarch slurry: mix a small amount of cornstarch (1-2 teaspoons) with an equal amount of cold water until smooth, then whisk it into your simmering sauce. Continue to simmer until it reaches your desired thickness. Another delicious way is to add a touch more butter or a splash of heavy cream and simmer, allowing the fats to emulsify and create a richer, thicker consistency.
Most traditional buffalo sauce recipes are naturally keto-friendly. A standard homemade buffalo sauce typically includes hot sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot, which is usually carb-free), butter, Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, and various seasonings. These ingredients are all generally low in carbohydrates and suitable for a ketogenic diet. However, if you’re using a store-bought buffalo sauce, it’s always wise to double-check the label for any hidden sugars or cornstarch-based thickeners that could increase the carb count.
Generally, most homemade buffalo sauce recipes are inherently gluten-free, as their core ingredients (hot sauce, butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices) do not contain gluten. When purchasing pre-made buffalo sauce from the store, it’s important to always read the ingredient label carefully. While many brands are gluten-free, some may contain additives, thickeners, or flavorings that could include gluten, so vigilance is key for those with sensitivities or celiac disease.
You can certainly do some prep work in advance! The chicken tenders can be coated in the mayonnaise mixture and even breaded up to 8 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The buffalo sauce can also be made a day or two in advance and reheated gently before tossing. For the crispiest results, however, it’s best to air fry the chicken and coat it in sauce just before serving. Leftover cooked tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain some crispness.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love
If you’ve enjoyed making these buffalo chicken tenders, then you’ll love exploring other simple and delicious recipes for your air fryer. It’s an incredibly versatile appliance that makes cooking faster and healthier:
- Air Fryer Rotisserie Style Whole Chicken
- Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
- Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas
- Air Fryer Quesadillas
- Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
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Equipment
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Air Fryer
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders (approximately 8 pieces)
- ¼ cup real mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Breading
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Cooking spray
Buffalo Sauce
- ½ cup cayenne pepper sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot Sauce)
- ¼ cup salted butter
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir well until smooth.
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Add the chicken tenders to the mayonnaise mixture and toss to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate for 5 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
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In a separate medium bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
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To make the buffalo sauce, combine the cayenne pepper sauce, butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper in a small saucepan. Place over medium-high heat and stir until the butter melts and the sauce begins to heat.
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Bring the buffalo sauce to a low boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens. Remove from heat.
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While the sauce simmers, begin breading the chicken. Using a fork or tongs, dredge each mayonnaise-coated chicken tender in the Panko breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs firmly with your hands to ensure a complete and even coating on both sides.
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Place the coated chicken tenders on a wire rack set over a sheet pan or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat for all remaining tenders.
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 3 minutes, following your manufacturer’s instructions.
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Lightly spray the breaded chicken tenders with cooking spray. Place 4-5 tenders in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer without overcrowding for optimal crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary.
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Air fry for 6-9 minutes, flipping the tenders at the halfway mark (after 3-4 minutes) to ensure even browning and crisping.
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Check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
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Remove the cooked chicken tenders to another wire rack or plate and continue cooking any remaining batches.
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Once all chicken is cooked, use tongs to coat each crispy tender in the thickened buffalo sauce.
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Place the coated tenders back into the air fryer basket (again, without overcrowding) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to “bake on” the sauce, creating a light glaze.
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Repeat with any remaining coated tenders.
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Serve immediately with your favorite blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks. Enjoy!
Notes
No breading option: For a lighter version, omit the panko and mayonnaise coating. Simply toss chicken tenders with 1 tbsp oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping once. Then, dredge in buffalo sauce and return to air fryer for 1-2 minutes to bake on the sauce.
Keto, low carb and gluten free option: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs for ¾ cup almond flour + an additional ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese for a delicious, compliant breading.
Nutrition
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