Buffalo Exchange's Crispy Chicken Tenders feature juicy, tender chicken strips coated in a golden, crunchy breading, delivering a satisfying combination of savory flavor and crunchy texture perfect for a hearty snack or meal.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Sheet pan
- Cooling rack
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Ensure that your chicken tenders are fully thawed and patted dry before coating to achieve the crispiest texture. Use panko breadcrumbs as they provide a lighter, crunchier breading compared to regular breadcrumbs. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper creates a balanced flavor profile that is both savory and mildly spicy. Buttermilk and egg mixture helps the coating adhere well and tenderizes the chicken for juicy results. Your homemade Crispy Chicken Tenders will closely replicate the deliciously crisp and flavorful strips from Buffalo Exchange's popular copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C), and set up a sheet pan topped with a cooling rack.
- Use a chef’s knife and cutting board to trim chicken tenders if needed.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Place panko breadcrumbs in a third mixing bowl.
- Dredge each chicken tender in seasoned flour, coating completely.
- Dip floured tenders in the buttermilk-egg mixture.
- Press tenders into panko breadcrumbs, ensuring full coverage.
- Use tongs to carefully place breaded tenders onto the sheet pan.
- Fry chicken tenders in batches for 4–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C, checked with a meat thermometer).
- Transfer cooked tenders to the cooling rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
G. Crispy Chicken Tenders from Buffalo Exchange copycat menu offer juicy, tender chicken strips enveloped in a golden, crunchy breading that balances savory flavor and texture. If buttermilk is unavailable for marinating, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar tenderizing effect. For a healthier alternative, consider baking the tenders on a sheet pan at 400degF (200degC) for 20-25 minutes instead of deep frying. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165degF (74degC) by using a meat thermometer for safe consumption. You can customize the seasoning blend by adjusting paprika and cayenne pepper levels to suit your preferred spice intensity.
Tips
Ensure your vegetable oil maintains a consistent temperature of 350degF (175degC) during frying to achieve crispy, golden chicken tenders without absorbing excess oil. Use a meat thermometer to verify each tender reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness. Fully coat chicken strips by following the proper sequence: seasoned flour, buttermilk-egg mixture, then panko breadcrumbs, to get the signature crunchy texture. Your cooling rack setup allows excess oil to drain, preventing soggy tenders and preserving crispiness.
Nutritions
Buffalo Exchange's Crispy Chicken Tenders provide a rich source of protein from the boneless, skinless chicken tenders, supporting muscle repair and growth. The breading made from all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, and spices adds carbohydrates and fiber, contributing to energy and digestive health. The frying process introduces vegetable oil, adding calories primarily from fats, which enhances flavor but should be consumed in moderation for heart health. You can enjoy this dish as a balanced protein-rich meal while being mindful of its calorie density due to frying.
Storage
Store leftover Buffalo Exchange's Crispy Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain their crispiness and prevent bacterial growth. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crunchy texture without drying out the meat. Avoid storing at room temperature for prolonged periods to ensure your chicken remains safe and delicious.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance the flavor by substituting the buttermilk with Greek yogurt thinned with a bit of milk, which also adds extra tenderness. For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with almond flour and crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes. Try baking the chicken tenders at 425degF (220degC) on a greased sheet pan for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispy texture with less oil. Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture to add aromatic complexity to your dish.
Allergies
Buffalo Exchange's Crispy Chicken Tenders contain common allergens such as eggs, found in the batter, and wheat from the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. The presence of buttermilk introduces dairy allergens that may affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. If you have sensitivities to any of these ingredients, be cautious when enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
The G. Crispy Chicken Tenders menu from Buffalo Exchange restaurant is popular for its perfectly seasoned, tender chicken coated in a crispy, golden batter that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Each tender is crafted using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a flavorful and juicy interior that appeals to both casual diners and food enthusiasts. Replicating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal tailored to your taste preferences, creating a cost-effective and customizable dining experience. Making a copycat version is worth trying because it captures the same mouthwatering texture and bold flavors that make Buffalo Exchange's dish a favorite, while giving you control over ingredient freshness and seasoning.