When you’re craving something spicy, crispy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, these Quick & Easy Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Ranch Sauce are the perfect answer. This recipe combines the irresistible crunch of golden-brown chicken tenders with the bold heat of classic buffalo sauce, creating a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a casual game-day gathering, or just looking for a flavorful snack, these buffalo tenders deliver every time. The homemade ranch sauce adds a cool and creamy contrast that perfectly balances the heat, making each bite unforgettable.
In just a few simple steps, you can transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or culinary expertise—just a few pantry staples and about 30 minutes. From coating the tenders to whisking the ranch dressing, each step is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Serve these crispy buffalo tenders alongside celery sticks or fries, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delicious as it is easy. Get ready to impress your taste buds and guests alike with this fiery yet refreshing recipe.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders Ingredients and Preparation
For the ultimate crispy texture and bold flavor, gather these simple ingredients before you begin.
Ingredients for Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko crumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Ranch Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Start by prepping your chicken. Pat dry each piece with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps the coating stick better. Mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in one bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip it into the egg, and coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a tray while you heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). This preparation ensures your tenders cook evenly, crisp up perfectly, and stay juicy inside.
Step-by-Step Directions for Buffalo Chicken Tenders
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the tenders. Make sure it reaches 350°F to ensure crispiness.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches. Fry each piece for about 5–6 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Rest: Use tongs to remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step keeps your tenders crisp, not greasy.
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce: In a saucepan, combine melted butter, hot sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat gently and whisk until smooth.
- Toss the Tenders: Once all chicken pieces are cooked, toss them in the warm buffalo sauce until fully coated. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce depending on your preference.
- Make the Ranch Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and smooth.
Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of crispy, spicy chicken. The tenders should be golden, with a light, crunchy exterior and juicy inside. Serve them hot with a side of ranch for dipping.
Serving and Presentation of Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Presentation matters just as much as flavor, especially when you’re serving guests or looking to elevate your everyday dinner. Arrange your freshly cooked Buffalo Chicken Tenders on a platter lined with lettuce leaves for a restaurant-style touch. Place a small bowl of ranch sauce at the center for easy dipping. Garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives for color contrast.
For a balanced meal, serve these tenders with celery and carrot sticks—the crisp, fresh vegetables perfectly complement the spicy kick of buffalo sauce. If you prefer something heartier, pair them with fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a creamy coleslaw. For a lighter option, place a few tenders on top of a salad and drizzle with extra ranch dressing.
Hosting a party? Turn these buffalo tenders into sliders by sandwiching them in mini buns with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch. The versatility of this dish makes it a hit at any event. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, these buffalo chicken tenders always steal the spotlight.
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Tenders Every Time
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders cook more evenly and stay juicy compared to frozen ones.
- Don’t Skip the Flour: The flour coating helps the breadcrumbs stick and creates a crisp outer layer.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F. If it’s too low, your tenders absorb oil and become soggy; too high, and they burn before cooking through.
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For added crispiness, dip the chicken back into the egg and breadcrumbs once more before frying.
- Toss in Sauce Right Before Serving: To keep the coating crunchy, don’t soak the tenders in sauce too early.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the hot sauce ratio or adding cayenne for an extra kick.
- Homemade Ranch is Key: Store-bought ranch can’t match the freshness and tang of homemade dressing.
Following these expert tips ensures that every batch of buffalo chicken tenders comes out restaurant-quality—crispy, spicy, and bursting with flavor.
Storing, Reheating, and Pairing Buffalo Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers (though they rarely last long), let the tenders cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to a month.
To reheat, avoid the microwave—it can make them soggy. Instead, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place tenders on a baking sheet, and warm for 10–12 minutes until crisp. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes.
These buffalo tenders pair beautifully with a range of sides: crispy fries, mac and cheese, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For drinks, serve them with chilled lemonade, iced tea, or a cold beer to balance the spice.
Whether it’s a casual dinner, party platter, or quick weekend treat, these Quick & Easy Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Ranch Sauce will satisfy your cravings every time—bringing together heat, crunch, and creamy coolness in perfect harmony.
