Homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe

30-minute meals baked or air fried buffalo chicken chicken tenders gluten-free option healthy fast food at home high protein serves 4

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:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts

  • 2 eggs

  • ½ cup almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Olive oil spray or avocado oil (for baking)

For the buffalo sauce:

  • ¼ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)

  • 1 tbsp melted butter or avocado oil

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • Optional: 1 tsp honey for a milder heat

 

Instructions:

  1. 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.

  2. Set up breading station
    In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  3. 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.

  4. Bake or air fry

    • Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

    • Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

  5. Toss in buffalo sauce
    Whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder. Toss warm tenders gently in the sauce until coated.

  6. Serve hot
    Pair with celery, carrot sticks, and a side of Greek yogurt ranch or dairy-free dip.

 

Sarah’s Tips:

  • Gluten-free option: Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.

  • Mild version: Add a drizzle of honey or serve with extra yogurt ranch to cool things down.

  • Meal prep tip: Bake plain tenders and freeze. Reheat and toss in buffalo sauce just before serving.

  • 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):

  • Calories: 295

  • Protein: 30g

  • Carbs: 6g

  • Fat: 17g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 1g

FREE MEGA BUNDLE: 
10 Done-for-You Nutrition Guides

Meal plans, snack ideas, food charts & more — all printable, all free.

Claim Your Free Bundle Now

New Recipes

Grilled Feta with Herbs Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Cheddar and Apple Sandwich Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Blue Cheese Burgers Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Goat Cheese Salad Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Mozzarella Sandwich Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Brie with Cranberries Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Panini with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Sandwich Recipe

Apr 17, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions