Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are so simple to make and ready to eat in less than 20 minutes, easy to make gluten-free too!
Are you ready for a tasty dinner to pair with your Air Fryer French Fries? These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are just the thing!
We decided to adapt the Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings to make tenders and they turned out perfectly.
I also decided not to tell my son it was spicy, that was fun! I’ve never seen him run for milk fast enough, he did love the meal though, which says a lot because he’s always been super picky.
What do you need for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
- Chicken Tenderloins
- Butter
- Buffalo Sauce
- Regular or Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs
- Garlic Powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Grapeseed Oil Spray
Tips for Making Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders:
This particular recipe makes just about 8 chicken tenderloins. I’d start with all the ingredient measurements listed, then add additional amounts if needed.
Sometimes the ingredients can vary based on what exactly you are using, for instance, the breadcrumbs can vary a bit.
The most important tip is to be sure to completely pat the chicken dry before breading. If you do not do this step the breading will fall off the chicken while eating, find more tips on breading the chicken in this article.
As always, all air fryers heat differently too, so it is important to watch the chicken closely. In a Ninja Air Fryer, this chicken is cooked in about 12 to 15 minutes at 390 degrees F. The most important thing is that the chicken has an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F before serving.
Can you make this recipe gluten-free?
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders are easy to make gluten-free with a simple swap, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
I have been using Ian’s Original Panko Breadcrumbs, which work well for this particular recipe.
Also, be sure the buffalo sauce used is gluten-free too, it should be naturally gluten-free but always check the ingredients.
How do you store leftover chicken tenders?
These chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When ready to serve, move to a heat-proof plate and heat in the air fryer at 340 degrees F for 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, they can also be reheated on a microwave-safe plate for 1 minute in the microwave.
More Buffalo Sauce-Inspired Recipes:
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 8 Chicken Tenderloins Boneless
- 4 Tbsp Butter Melted
- 1/2 Cup Buffalo Sauce
- 1 Cup Gluten-Free or Regular Breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 Tsp Salt
- 1/2 Tsp Pepper
- Grapeseed or Olive Oil Cooking Spray
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the butter and buffalo sauce and set aside.
- In another bowl, combine the bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Completely pat the chicken dry – this is necessary to keep the breading on the chicken when eating.
- Dip each chicken piece into the buffalo sauce mixture then fully coat with the breading and place in the air fryer basket evenly.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes in the air fryer at 390°F or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F.
- Once done, carefully remove and serve with a dipping sauce of choice.
Notes
Nutrition
Lynn leary says
Can you prepare these ahead of time and then air fry when ready to eat.
Lisa says
Followed exactly! Sooo good!
Kristy says
One of our favorite weeknight meals!
Madison C. says
My favorite air fryer recipe for chicken tenders! So yummy and so easy to make.
Kristy says
Yay! So happy to hear that!