Homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe

Craving something crispy, spicy, and completely satisfying? These Homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders bring the heat — without the grease.
They’re breaded in a light, crunchy coating, baked or air-fried until golden, then tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce that makes every bite bold and addictive (in the best way). Serve them with a cool dip and crunchy veggies and you’ve got a clean comfort food dinner the whole table will love.
This is Healthy Fast Food at Home with attitude — easy, flavorful, and full of real ingredients.
Ingredients:
For the tenders:
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1 lb chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts
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2 eggs
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½ cup almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Olive oil spray or avocado oil (for baking)
For the buffalo sauce:
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¼ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
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1 tbsp melted butter or avocado oil
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½ tsp garlic powder
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Optional: 1 tsp honey for a milder heat
Instructions:
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Preheat oven or air fryer
Preheat oven to 425°F or air fryer to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly spray with oil. -
Set up breading station
In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Bread the tenders
Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then into the flour mixture, pressing to coat well. Place on baking sheet or in air fryer basket. -
Bake or air fry
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Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
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Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
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Toss in buffalo sauce
Whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder. Toss warm tenders gently in the sauce until coated. -
Serve hot
Pair with celery, carrot sticks, and a side of Greek yogurt ranch or dairy-free dip.
Sarah’s Tips:
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Gluten-free option: Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
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Mild version: Add a drizzle of honey or serve with extra yogurt ranch to cool things down.
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Meal prep tip: Bake plain tenders and freeze. Reheat and toss in buffalo sauce just before serving.
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Low carb idea: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce cups with extra veggies.
Flavorful Conclusion:
These Homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders are crispy, spicy, and everything you want when that craving hits — but made lighter and cleaner for everyday eating. Whether it’s game day, family dinner, or just a “buffalo mood” moment, this one brings the flavor without the guilt.
Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):
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Calories: 295
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Protein: 30g
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Carbs: 6g
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Fat: 17g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 1g
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