There’s something undeniably exciting about biting into a plate of hot, crispy chicken tenders, especially when they come slathered in a spicy, tangy buffalo sauce. But what if you could enjoy all that flavor without the added calories or carbs from breading? Enter the Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders No breading recipe! This dish delivers a satisfying crunch and a punch of flavor, making it perfect for game days, gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a buffalo sauce enthusiast or just looking for a new recipe to spice up your dinner rotation, these tenders are sure to impress.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Cooks rave about Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders No breading for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. The lack of breading means they are lighter than traditional chicken tenders, making them a great choice for those watching their carb intake. The recipe is also highly customizable; you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste or switch up the sauce for a different flavor profile altogether. Plus, they are incredibly versatile—serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even toss them in a salad for a hearty meal.

Gather These Ingredients

To make Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders No breading, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1.5 lbs chicken tenders – Fresh or thawed, they provide the perfect base for the dish.
1/2 cup buffalo sauce – Choose your favorite brand, or make your own for a personal touch.
1 tablespoon olive oil – This adds flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that extra kick of flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth to the overall taste.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
Fresh parsley or green onions (optional) – For garnish and added freshness.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken tenders.
Mixing spoon – To combine the ingredients evenly.
Skillet or frying pan – For cooking the tenders to perfection.
Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is cooked through.
Serving platter – To showcase your delicious creation.

The Method for Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders No breading

Follow these simple steps to create your Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders No breading:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them sear nicely in the pan.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken tenders with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the spices.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Place a skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for a couple of minutes. A hot skillet is essential for a nice sear on the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken tenders to the heated skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Add the Buffalo Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken tenders and toss them gently until they are fully coated in the sauce. Allow them to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the saucy buffalo chicken tenders to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions if desired, and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you want to make some dietary adjustments, consider these alternatives:

Gluten-Free: Ensure your buffalo sauce is gluten-free or make your own using hot sauce and vinegar.
Spicy Alternative: For a milder flavor, use a sweet chili sauce instead of buffalo sauce.
Low-Sodium: Choose low-sodium chicken broth and buffalo sauce to reduce sodium content.
Vegan Option: Substitute chicken tenders with tofu or tempeh and prepare similarly.

Cook’s Notes

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it’s the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.

Feel free to customize the spice level of your buffalo sauce by adding more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

For an extra crispy texture, you could broil the chicken tenders for a minute or two after adding the sauce.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to handle them:

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To rewarm, simply microwave them for a minute or two or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Reader Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! Chicken breast can be cut into strips to make your own tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for thicker pieces.

How can I make these tenders less spicy?

To lessen the heat, you can use a milder buffalo sauce or mix the buffalo sauce with some ranch dressing for a creamier, less spicy taste.

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauce goes well with buffalo chicken tenders?

Classic choices include ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing, but you can also serve them with honey mustard or a yogurt-based sauce for a healthier option.

Let’s Eat

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making Saucy Buffalo Chicken Tenders No breading, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These tenders are perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! With their crispy exterior, juicy interior, and zesty sauce, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy them as they are, or pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging in a cozy night at home, these buffalo chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Dive in and savor every delicious bite!