Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe gives you all the flavor and crunch of traditional buffalo chicken tenders with less oil and cleanup. The air fryer ensures crispy edges while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Tossed in classic buffalo sauce, these tenders are perfect on their own, in wraps, or served with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 pound chicken tenderloins
2–4 tablespoons buffalo sauce
Olive oil spray

Directions

In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, water, and hot sauce until smooth.
Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Makes about 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 20–22 minutes

Variations

Extra Crispy: Double-coat the chicken in flour for an extra crunchy exterior.
Mild or Spicy: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your preferred heat level.
Parmesan Buffalo Tenders: Sprinkle cooked tenders with grated Parmesan for added flavor.
Breaded Twist: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of all-purpose flour for a crunchier texture.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenderloins. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Can I make these in the oven?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the breading ahead and store in the fridge. Cook fresh in the air fryer when ready.

Can I freeze these tenders?

Yes, freeze uncooked breaded tenders in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What dipping sauces pair best?

Ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard, or extra buffalo sauce are all great options.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and quick to make, offering the perfect balance of heat and juiciness. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or anytime you crave a crowd-pleasing chicken dish. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious, guilt-reduced treat.