Go Back
Buffalo chicken tenders are a beloved comfort food that combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with a spicy, tangy kick. These tenders are perfect for game day gatherings, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. The appeal lies in their crispy texture and bold flavor, making them a favorite among both adults and children alike. Traditionally deep-fried, Buffalo chicken tenders are often seen as a guilty pleasure, but with the rise of air fryer technology, it's possible to enjoy this delicious dish in a healthier way without sacrificing any of the taste.

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Discover the deliciousness of crispy air fryer buffalo chicken tenders! This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with a zesty kick, making them perfect for game days or quick family meals. Enjoy the crispy texture and vibrant flavor without the excess oil, thanks to air frying. You’ll find step-by-step instructions and ingredient breakdowns that ensure tender and juicy tenders every time, along with tips for perfect pairings. Enjoy a guilt-free twist on a classic comfort food!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use Panko for an extra crunchy texture)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust according to your spice preference)

Olive oil spray

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

    Prepare the Coating: In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

      Coat the Chicken: After marinating, take the chicken tenders out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating well. Shake off any extra flour before moving on to the next step.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This should take about 5 minutes.

          Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch to allow even crispy cooking. Lightly spray the tops of each tender with olive oil spray for enhanced crispiness.

            Cooking Time: Air fry the chicken tenders for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. They should turn a beautiful golden brown, and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

              Toss in Buffalo Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the freshly cooked chicken tenders. Pour the buffalo sauce over them and gently toss until each tender is thoroughly coated in the sauce. Adjust the amount of sauce based on your preferred spiciness.

                Serve: Transfer the buffalo chicken tenders to a serving platter. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, crisp celery sticks, and tangy blue cheese to complete the experience!

                  Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4