Crispy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Dive into the ultimate comfort food with these Crispy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines succulent chicken tenders marinated in zesty hot sauce and buttermilk, then coated in a flavorful Cajun-spiced crust. After a quick fry, they emerge golden brown and irresistibly crunchy, perfect for dipping in your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing. Ideal as an appetizer or main dish, these tenders are sure to wow your family, making for a fun, casual meal or game day snack. Get ready to create a mouthwatering experience that packs a flavorful punch!
4
Servings
300
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken tenders
12 ounces (Trimmed and cleaned)
hot sauce
1/2 cup (For marinade)
buttermilk
1/2 cup (For dipping)
all-purpose flour
1 cup (For breading)
kosher salt
2 teaspoons (For seasoning)
cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons (For added flavor)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your deep fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit.
2
In a large plastic bag, combine the chicken tenders with the hot sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
3
Prepare your breading station: on one plate, mix the all-purpose flour, Cajun seasoning, and kosher salt. Pour the buttermilk onto a second plate.
4
Take the marinated chicken tenders out of the refrigerator and start the breading process. First, dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. Next, dip them into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, and then return to the flour for a second coating. This double dredging will create a thicker, crunchier layer.
5
Place the breaded tenders on a wire rack for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the crust to set, reducing the chances of it falling off during frying.
6
For an extra crispy finish, give the tenders one last dredge in the flour mixture before frying. This step is optional but highly recommended.
7
Carefully drop the coated tenders into the preheated oil, frying in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-6 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, achieving a deliciously crispy exterior.
8
Once cooked, remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
17.5g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish in this recipe?
The main dish is Crispy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders.
How long should the chicken tenders marinate?
The chicken should marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
What is the recommended temperature for the deep fryer?
Preheat your deep fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What ingredients are used for the breading?
The breading consists of all-purpose flour, Cajun seasoning, and kosher salt.
Why is it important to rest the chicken on a wire rack for 5 minutes?
Resting the chicken helps the crust set, which prevents it from falling off during the frying process.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How long do the tenders need to fry?
Fry the tenders for 4-6 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
What is the purpose of double dredging the chicken?
Double dredging creates a thicker and crunchier layer of crust.
What liquid is used to help the breading stick to the chicken?
Buttermilk is used as the dipping liquid for the breading process.
How much chicken is required for this recipe?
You will need 12 ounces of trimmed and cleaned chicken tenders.
What are the primary seasonings for the flour mixture?
The flour is seasoned with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 20g of protein.
How much fat is in one serving of these tenders?
There are 20g of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving has 17.5g of carbohydrates.
What should I do after frying the chicken?
Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and serve hot.
Can I add an extra dredge for more crispiness?
Yes, an optional third dredge in the flour mixture before frying is highly recommended for an extra crispy finish.
What sauces are recommended for dipping?
Ranch or blue cheese dressing are excellent choices for dipping.
How should the chicken be fried to ensure even cooking?
Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer oil.
What is the first step in the breading station?
Dredge each marinated tender in the flour mixture ensuring an even coat.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include buffalo chicken tenders, crispy chicken, spicy chicken, and comfort food.
Is this recipe suitable for game day?
Yes, it is categorized as a great game day snack and appetizer.
How much hot sauce is needed for the marinade?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of hot sauce.
What kind of flour is best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is recommended for the breading.
How much Cajun seasoning should I use?
Use 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning for added flavor.
What kind of salt is used?
Kosher salt is used for seasoning the flour.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The nutritional information indicates no sugar content.
Does this recipe include fiber?
According to the nutrition data, there is no fiber in this recipe.
What is the preparation for the hot sauce?
The hot sauce is used specifically as a marinade for the chicken.
Can these be served as a main dish?
Yes, these chicken tenders are ideal as either an appetizer or a main dish.