If you’re anything like me, you can’t resist the temptation of perfectly crispy buffalo chicken. After testing and tweaking this recipe a few times, I can confidently say it’s one of the best dishes I’ve made.

The chicken stays moist, the crust is golden and crunchy, and the smooth buffalo sauce adds just the right amount of heat. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe never disappoints. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crispy buffalo chicken recipe, along with tips to get the best results.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
For even cooking, use fresh tenderloins with no added moisture.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
This creates the first layer to help the coating stick.
1/2 tsp salt
Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
1/8 tsp pepper
Adds a subtle depth of spice.
1/4 cup hot sauce
I recommend Frank’s Red Hot for that classic buffalo flavor.
2 large eggs
Whisked with the hot sauce to act as a binding agent.
3/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
These ensure the crispiest texture.
1 tbsp steak seasoning (optional)
A bold seasoning mix that complements the buffalo sauce well.
1/4 cup vegetable oil
For frying; ensures golden, crunchy chicken.

Note: This recipe serves 4, making it ideal for a small family meal or shared platter.

Variations

Want to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs? Here are a few variations to try:

Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour and Panko breadcrumbs.
Low-Carb/Keto: Replace Panko with crushed pork rinds for a flavorful, low-carb coating.
Less Spicy: Use mild buffalo sauce or dilute your hot sauce with melted butter.
Cheesy Coating: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan with the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

If you’re a fan of hearty chicken dishes, you can also enjoy similar recipes like Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of how long this recipe will take:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment Needed

Before you begin, gather the following essential tools:

Baking sheet with wire rack: For even baking after frying.
Shallow bowls (3): To hold the flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs for coating.
Non-stick skillet: Ideal for crisping the chicken without sticking.
Tongs: For turning chicken easily during frying.
Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F.

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken?

This recipe is easy to follow and delivers crispy, flavorful chicken every time.

Step 1: Preheat and Set Up

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Meanwhile, spray a wire rack with cooking spray and place it on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Arrange three shallow bowls for the coating process. Fill the first bowl with flour, salt, and pepper. The second bowl should contain the whisked eggs and hot sauce, while the third holds the Panko breadcrumbs mixed with steak seasoning.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

One by one, dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly. Place the coated pieces on a plate until ready to fry.

Step 3: Pan-Fry for Crispness

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until the coating turns a beautiful golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the fried chicken onto the prepared wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to ensure the chicken cooks through while maintaining its crisp crust.

Step 5: Toss with Buffalo Sauce

Pour the buffalo sauce into a shallow bowl or saucepan. Dip each chicken tender into the sauce, making sure it’s well-coated. Arrange the chicken back on the wire rack for serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Based on my personal experience, here are a few tips to help you perfect your crispy buffalo chicken:

Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating to help the breading stick.
Don’t Skip the Rack: Baking the chicken on a wire rack prevents the underside from getting soggy.
Use Fresh Oil: Using fresh vegetable oil ensures the flavor stays clean and the chicken doesn’t absorb unnecessary fat.
Temperature is Key: Monitor the oil temperature while frying to keep it consistent around 350°F.

For more inspiration, you can also explore this Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe that’s equally comforting and delicious.

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken?

Presentation is everything, especially when serving a showstopper recipe like this! Arrange the chicken on a platter lined with crisp celery sticks and carrot strips for color and crunch. Add small bowls of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For an elegant touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of Parmesan over the top.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 415
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for prepping in advance! Here’s how to store it:

Make Ahead: Bread the chicken up to a day before and refrigerate. Fry and bake just before serving.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The breaded, uncooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven until hot and crisp, about 8-10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is made to impress! Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:

Crispy Perfection: The combination of frying and baking creates an unbeatable texture.
Versatile: Ideal as a party appetizer, main course, or flavorful topper for salads.
Customizable: Easily adapts to gluten-free, low-carb, or less spicy versions.
Easy to Make: Straightforward steps that even novice cooks can follow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

To ensure your buffalo chicken turns out just right, avoid these common pitfalls:

Skipping the Preheat: Starting with a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking.
Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid soggy breading.
Using Cold Chicken: Allow the meat to come to room temperature before coating to ensure even cooking.
Soggy Coating: If the coating doesn’t stick, try lightly patting the chicken dry and coating thoroughly in flour before dipping in the egg wash.

There you have it! A foolproof recipe for crispy buffalo chicken that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table or next gathering. Enjoy the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and juiciness with every bite.

For more inspiration, check out these Chicken Recipes that are equally versatile and delicious.

Ash Tyrrell